Frida Kahlo - Capítulo 1

Summary

The first chapter of 'Arriba Calor' focuses on Guillermo Kahlo, originally Wilhelm, a young German who left his homeland after a difficult family life. Sent to Mexico by his father, Wilhelm adopts the name Guillermo and begins a new life. He meets Matilde Calderón, a woman haunted by the recent tragedy of her fiancé’s suicide. Despite their instant connection, Matilde is unaware that Guillermo already has a girlfriend. This chapter sets the stage for Guillermo's new journey and his future relationship with Matilde, mother of the famous artist Frida Kahlo.

Takeaways

• 🇩🇪 Guillermo Kahlo was originally Wilhelm, a young German who suffered from epilepsy due to a brain injury.
• 💔 After his mother died, Wilhelm had a strained relationship with his stepmother.
• 🚢 His father decided it was best for Wilhelm to leave Germany and start a new life, sending him to Mexico in 1891.
• 🇲🇽 Wilhelm embraced his new identity as Guillermo Kahlo after arriving in Mexico.
• 💍 Guillermo met Matilde Calderón in a jewelry store and was immediately attracted to her.
• 🎨 Matilde was of mixed Spanish and Mexican heritage, and her father was a photographer.
• 😢 Matilde was deeply affected by the suicide of her former German boyfriend, Wilfred, which left her with lasting grief.
• 🗣 Guillermo's charming German accent evoked deep emotions in Matilde, reminding her of her late boyfriend.
• 💑 Although Matilde felt a connection with Guillermo, she was unaware that he already had a fiancée.
• 📸 The chapter sets the stage for how Guillermo Kahlo became part of Mexican culture and history, and his connection to Frida Kahlo's future family.

Q & A

Who is the main subject of the book 'Arriba Calor'?

The main subject of the book is the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, and it is a biography of her life.

Who is introduced in Chapter 1 of the book?

Chapter 1 introduces Guillermo Kahlo, who was born Wilhelm, a young German man who later became Frida Kahlo's father.

What major event affected Wilhelm's life in Germany?

Wilhelm suffered a traumatic brain injury after falling, which caused him to experience epileptic seizures. His mother's death and conflict with his stepmother also impacted his life.

Why did Wilhelm decide to leave Germany for Mexico?

Wilhelm's father decided it was best for him to leave after Wilhelm's stepmother demanded that he find a job and become more independent. His father bought him a ticket to Mexico, believing it would be a good opportunity for him.

How did Wilhelm's life change after arriving in Mexico?

After arriving in Mexico, Wilhelm adopted the name 'Guillermo' and found work in a jewelry store. He was also drawn to Matilde Calderón, a young woman he met there.

Who is Matilde Calderón and what tragedy did she experience?

Matilde Calderón is the daughter of a Spanish mother and a Mexican father. She experienced a personal tragedy when her German fiancé, Wilfred, committed suicide in front of her.

What was Matilde's reaction upon meeting Guillermo?

Matilde felt a deep emotional connection when she heard Guillermo’s German accent, as it reminded her of her late fiancé Wilfred.

Did Guillermo have a relationship with Matilde immediately after meeting her?

Although Matilde felt an attraction to Guillermo, she was unaware that Guillermo already had a girlfriend at the time.

Why did Matilde feel sadness when she met Guillermo?

Matilde was reminded of her deceased fiancé Wilfred, whose memory was still deeply present in her life.

How did Guillermo adjust to life in Mexico after emigrating from Germany?

Guillermo quickly adapted to life in Mexico, speaking Spanish fluently with a charming German accent, and he was able to find work and integrate into Mexican society.