We Were the Lucky Ones

Addy is thrilled to learn that the President of Brazil has granted a visa extension to the passengers from the Alsina. He and the other detained passengers board a new ship. Addy realizes that in a way, he will miss the Ilha das Flores, where he had had no choice but to relax and wait for almost a month: “The moment he arrives a free man in Rio, his destiny will once again lie in his own hands” (177). Addy, who does not speak the language, has no money, contacts, or place to live.

Once they are released in Rio, Addy, Eliska, and Madame Lowbeer go to Eliska’s uncle’s apartment. In the morning, Eliska wants to go out and explore, so Addy suggests the Copacabana, though he is nearly broke. The couple marvels at the beauty of the city, the beach, and the surrounding mountains. Addy enjoys the public art on display and thinks about how his family would love it in Rio. He then feels guilty: “How is it that he is here—in paradise!—while his family is being subjected to who-knows-what unfathomable horror?” (179). Seeing Eliska’s joy and excitement makes Addy’s sadness retreat once again. Addy buys a coconut from a street vendor and thinks that he could be happy in Rio, though it’s very different from his home.