What is the What: Running = Flying.

A notable scene in the novel is when Valentino imagines his perfect day. Valentino’s perfect day, in summary, comprises of simple moments in which he spends time affectionately with the various people in his village. One of these is running towards the river to get water for the girl of his dreams. I think Valentino’s act of running—even to the act of stumbling in front of his “crush,” falling, and getting up again—is symbolic of flying and freedom. Valentino tells the reader that he imagines this day whenever he feels dismal, which is in itself a desire for freedom and escape from the confines of poverty in the current reality with which he is subject to.