El origen del pensamiento

"El origen del pensamiento" by Armando Palacio Valdés is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces Mario, a young and ambitious sculptor, who navigates his romantic feelings amidst the complexities of life and social interactions in Madrid. His experiences at a café and his interactions with family and friends set the stage for a deeper exploration of love, aspiration, and the struggles of an artist. The opening of the novel depicts Mario's anxieties and physical discomfort as he observes a family at a nearby table while attempting to enjoy his coffee. He is in the company of his friend Adolfo and is eager for the arrival of a man named Don Laureano, who seems to be a mentor or figure of significance in Mario's life. The narrative captures Mario's growing infatuation with a young woman at the café, highlighting his emotional turmoil. The interactions with various café patrons, including other friends and acquaintances, convey the bustling social dynamics and philosophical discussions typical of the era, which serve to emphasize Mario's inner conflict between his artistic passions and personal desires.