Neftalí Reyes is The Dreamer’s protagonist. The story, which is based on the childhood years of poet Pablo Neruda (See: Background), spans Neftalí’s life from approximately six or seven years old to the time he leaves home for Santiago University. Neftalí’s complexity as a character is seen in his contrasting inner and outer lives. On the outside, he lacks physical strength or prowess, is intensely shy, and longs for a friend. His inner life, however, is robust, with an active mind, vivid imagination, and enduring curiosity.

The transformations that define Neftalí’s character arc establish several of the book’s thematic concepts, such as Inspiration, Influence, and Identity. His father habitually tells Neftalí he’s “weak” and “idiotic” and won’t amount to anything. Early in the narrative, this leads Neftalí to believe there’s something wrong with him. Over time, Neftalí experiences resentment toward his father for not accepting him as he is. He gains his own sense of identity by pursuing his passions, despite his father’s discouragement. Exploring nature, working for his uncle’s newspaper, and writing articles affirm his sense of self. He distances his identity as a writer from his father’s judgment by creating a

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