* The town of Arenal, a small, remote village in Guatemala, nestled at the foot of an active volcano. The story focuses on the lives of the villagers, particularly the children, who are struggling with poverty and the devastating aftermath of a volcanic eruption.
* The Hospital in the nearby city, where Rolf Carlé, a German photographer, works with the victims of the eruption. This location provides a contrasting backdrop to the isolated village, highlighting the complexities of the situation.
The story unfolds against the backdrop of the aftermath of a volcanic eruption, which is a major event that shapes the lives of the characters and the setting. The eruption, while a natural disaster, also serves as a powerful metaphor for the challenges and resilience of the human spirit.
Here's a breakdown of the setting's impact:
* Arenal: The village of Arenal symbolizes poverty, suffering, and the struggle for survival, but also resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of human connection.
* The hospital: Represents modern medicine, technology, and the struggle for survival, but also the limitations of human intervention and the complex nature of healing.
The combination of these settings, along with the backdrop of the volcanic eruption, contributes to the story's powerful message about the enduring human spirit, the importance of love and compassion, and the ability to find hope even in the face of great adversity.