Cronopios and Famas oil, acrylic and ink on paper, 40.5 x 30 cm, 2010

On the Preservation of Memories
Illustrations for a story by Julio Cortázar

To maintain the condition of their memories, the Famas proceed in the following manner: after having fastened the memory with webs and reminders, with every possible precaution, they wrap them from head to foot in a black sheet and stand them against the parlor wall with a little label which reads: “excursion to Quilmes ” or “Frank Sinatra.”

Cronopios, on the other hand, disordered and tepid beings that they are, leave memories loose about the house. They set down with happy shouts and walk carelessly among them, and when one passes through running they caress it mildly and tell it, “Don’t hurt yourself,” and also “careful of the stairs.” It is for this reason that the Famas houses are orderly and silent, while in those of the Cornopios there is great uproar and doors slamming. Neighbors always complain about Cronopios, and the Famas shake their heads understandingly, and go and see if the tags are all in place.

 
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