Introduction
In a world full of chaos, it might seem frivolous to reminisce about warm and tender things. Yet, as Churchill (perhaps) once said, the war is worth it for the survival of such tender and warm things. As the school year winds down, teachers finally get a break from their mischievous, aloof, or simply rude students. Among these educators, there’s one who stands out – my high school Spanish and literature teacher, Antonia.
A Difficult Student
High school was a fresh hell for me, attending a Catholic school with strict nuns. The school director, in particular, despised me for my lack of discipline, while I resented her narrow worldview. I was miserable in that school.
My grades were abysmal, and I once failed nine subjects with pride. These nuns couldn’t break me.
Enter Miss Tony
On the first day of class, Miss Tony asked if we enjoyed reading. No hands went up. There was no disappointment in her eyes, unlike the other teachers’ usual expressions. In Miss Tony’s universe, there was only challenge.
She made us love storytelling because she herself was a great storyteller. She drilled us on Spanish grammar, distinguishing direct and indirect objects and reminding us of accent rules we were supposed to know from primary school. We all forgot, but she patiently explained everything.
Igniting a Passion for Literature
Miss Tony’s goal wasn’t just to cover the curriculum; it was to ignite our passion for stories and reading. She wanted us to crave literature, just like a skilled chef whets our appetite for a meal.
She introduced us to José Emilio Pacheco through “Las batallas del desierto.” For many, it was their first encounter with “real” literature. For me, it was the first time reading a Mexican author other than Luis Spota (whose books my father owned).
Our love for Pacheco stuck like high-quality chewing gum. Miss Tony listened to our opinions on the book, had us write reviews, and gave constructive feedback. She was strict yet kind, attentive, and caring – a great teacher.
A Literary Feast
Miss Tony’s class was a literary feast, introducing us to authors like Lazarillo, Quevedo, sor Juana, José Agustín, Parménides García Saldaña, Gustavo Sáinz, Laura Esquivel, García Márquez, and Lorca. Among my classmates, “El rock de la cárcel” by José Agustín had a particular impact, with its themes of smoking in class and early sexual experiences resonating deeply.
A Lasting Influence
Miss Tony managed to awaken us from the dullness of that restrictive Catholic school, filled with absurd rules and teachers merely fulfilling their schedules. She strived to reach each of us, teaching us something valuable that would serve us forever.
Though I don’t know if my classmates became avid readers, I hope they remember Miss Tony every time they pick up a book. She gave me my passion for writing.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Antonia? Antonia was the author’s high school Spanish and literature teacher who ignited a passion for reading and storytelling.
- Why was Antonia’s class unique? Miss Tony focused on cultivating a love for literature rather than just covering the curriculum.
- What impact did Antonia have on her students? She inspired her students, including the author, to appreciate literature and develop a lifelong love for reading.
