First brought to larger public attention by Sigmund Freud, the Madonna-whore complex is a psychological complex perceived to manifest in males who view females in binary: either as saintly (Madonnas) or debased sex workers (whores). Effectively, men harboring this complex seek a sexual partner they can debase while not being able to be sexually attracted to a partner they respect.

This dichotomy of the sacred and the profane is perhaps seen most clearly in the opening story of the collection, “The Sun, the Moon, the Stars,” through Magda and Lucy. Yunior effectively places Magda on a pedestal but cannot have the type of sexual relationship he wants and needs with her. In other stories, we see Yunior’s love interests perhaps begin on the “whore” side of the figurative coin, and, when they attempt to be a loving, nurturing partner, Yunior cuts ties with them (as in “Flaca”) or has already made sure that their relationship cannot be legitimate (as in “Alma”).

Pura from “The Pura Principle” also reflects this dichotomy. In her youth, Yunior is intensely attracted to her, particularly given the fact that Rafa regularly has sex with her in the room he shares with Yunior.