The theme of hopelessnes is explored in the context of relationships and lifestyle choices in the modern city in this dark, humorous novel. Guido has spent half his life in misery, and his sister Gilda is also running headfirst into an abysmal life. They find themselves, however, finally emerging from the long depression that has been destroying them. Set in Barcelona, the story features urban characters who are tortured by their troubled pasts, struggling with the tremendous difficulties associated with rebuilding their lives, and forced to make painful decisions when situations are out of their control.