The novel is set in a classic coffee shop, Café Mokka, where the comings and goings of loyal and occasional customers spark conversations. Alberto, the waiter, is the protagonist and narrator, who explores these topics from multiple angles, always accompanied by good music. The author noted that the novel format was not initially planned, but as ideas developed, he saw the potential for a more extensive work than his usual short stories.
The writer and the character Alberto share a fondness for classic coffee shops. He believes these spaces are beautiful, with special decor, carefully curated music, and an atmosphere that encourages discussion. In the novel, different opinions are contrasted without a monolithic discourse, but Alberto's worldview, which aligns with the author's perspectives, is discernible.
“"It seems to me that the cultural level is declining, that it is increasingly difficult to read and listen to things with substance…"
The novel also addresses the issue of freedom, not as a denial, but as a relativization of supposed freedom. The power of the unconscious constantly influences this reality. The theory of the battle between sexes also appears, presented from doubt and different perspectives, not from absolute certainty. The author aimed to present a reality and raise questions about delicate topics, such as the trans issue in childhood, without expressing a definitive opinion to avoid offending sensitivities.
Reflections on childhood and the infantilization of society also hold significant weight in the novel. The author shares this concern and uses the reflections of the thinker Bruckner to express his viewpoint. Music also has a strong presence, as Alberto was a musician and a jazz enthusiast, meticulously curating the soundscape of the coffee shop. The novel has been well-received by readers, reaching its second edition in three weeks.
