The Blind Faith of the One-Eyed Matador

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Have you ever felt unsure about a topic? That is how I felt at first when I read “The Blind Faith of the One-Eyed Matador” by Karen Russell. I felt that bullfighting was simply cruel, but then I understood the culture behind it. The more I continued reading I understood the love and passion that Juan Padilla had for the sport. It seems crazy that what you love to do could almost cost you your life, and no matter the consequences you’re not willing to give it up. Although many people may agree bullfighting is a cruel sport, being a bullfighter is a part of culture, passed on through generations, and there is a passion behind it.

The story takes place in Spain and begins with Padilla fighting a bull at the Feris del Pilar and the worst imaginable incident happens; Padilla gets injured by the bull. Russell then discusses the process Juan Jose Padilla goes through of making a comeback after his horrendous accident; that leaves him partially blind. She also explores the traditions of bullfighting and the passion that goes along with it.

Russell starts by giving an insight about how bu...

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