Mexican author Majo Delgadillo has presented her short novel titled "Ratones" as part of the "En 15" series [1, 2].
The work represents a thematic shift in narrative storytelling by focusing on female desire and liberation. By reimagining the Cinderella story, Delgadillo explores the concept of women's hunger and the pursuit of pleasure while operating under imposed social limits [1, 2].
Delgadillo said the project underwent a significant evolution before reaching its final form. The narrative transitioned from a simple cuento, or short story, into a novela corta over a period of eight years [1]. This extended development process allowed the author to refine the lens through which the protagonist's hunger for freedom is viewed.
The presentation occurred within the "En 15" format, which utilizes a 15-minute segment to highlight literary works and authors [1]. Through this platform, Delgadillo said that the core intent of "Ratones" is to celebrate pleasure rather than focusing on suffering [1, 2].
By utilizing a well-known fairy tale as a foundation, the author addresses the systemic restrictions placed on women. The narrative seeks to flip the traditional Cinderella trope, moving away from the expectation of rescue and toward the active pursuit of satisfaction [1, 2].
“The narrative transitioned from a simple cuento into a novela corta over a period of eight years.”
Delgadillo's work contributes to a broader literary trend of subversive retellings, where classic folklore is used to critique gender roles. By emphasizing pleasure over the traditional 'suffering' arc of the Cinderella myth, the novel positions female desire as a catalyst for autonomy rather than a secondary plot point.
