Nada Summary

Dona Ernestina began to divest herself of her possessions when she learns that her son has been killed in Vietnam. Dressed in full mourning attire, complete with mantilla, she tells the women in the laundry room the next morning that she has refused the flag and medals that the government people brought. Dona Ernestina does not break down or cry like the others in the building. She maintains her dignity, although the others watch for signs of a crack in her exterior.

Finally one day Dona Ernestina notifies all of them that she is hosting a party to honor her husband, who died just one year ago, and now her dead son. People in the building see this as a sign that Dona Ernestina is recovering from her grief, and they prepare all sorts of food for the event. When the guests arrive...