It is intriguing to hear or see what secrets ly behind many old towns, especially those centuries old. In Juan Rulfo’s novel Pedro Paramo the entire pueblo, Comala, is huanted by the many wrong doings done at the hands of Pedro Paramo and his son Miguel. Throughout the novel evidence of a subdued population leaves the reader longing for vengence. However, both men seem to escape any severe punishment. Miguel’s death after his fall from the horse did not seem a harsh enough punishment, and Pedro’s death only left the reader wondering why he did not suffer any more.
The time period in which the novel is written certainly portrays what life must have been for many poor peasant families in Mexico before the Mexican Revolution. Growing up, I often heard my great-grand parents speak of the revolution. Although they themselves did not ride with Carranza, Villa, or Zapata, they often helped feed the soldiers and provided housing when the revolutionaries came to our pueblo.
Pedro Paramo reminded me of the rich family which lived in our small pueblo. They charged the poor families enourmous amounts of interest for borrowing money and robbed or murdered others that did not give in to their will. When the revolution finally broke out, all the sons of the rich landowner were hung. When the father lay dying, he was not allowed to receive last rites because his daughters feared they would be left penniless.
Today where the old hacienda stood are several homes. It is interesting to say that for the longest time, I have heard in part of the house people dressed in early century clothing have been seen by several people. It seems the ghosts of the past don’t die that easily.
