In the Time of the Butterflies

The narrative perspective switches again, and it is now told from Patria’s point-of-view. It begins in 1946, with Patria explaining her early interest in religion. From a young age, she imagined herself becoming a nun. Many other people assumed that she had a religious vocation. Patria goes to the convent school and tries to ignore the fact that she is going through puberty. Instead, she makes herself pious, carefully following all of the rules set out for the girls. She is so devout for her age that the nuns eventually take notice. When Patria is sixteen, Sor Asunción summons her and tells her to listen for God’s voice in case she should receive a calling to become a nun. If so, she will be welcomed at the convent. Patria notes that, during the meeting, she is distracted by the tree outside, which appears to be on fire.

At night, Patria starts touching herself, but tries to suppress her carnal desires with thoughts of Christ. She even asks for a crucifix to be placed above her bed, and devotes herself to her prayers and studies.