Section Fifteen Summary and Analysis

Following the Christmas holidays the men and their families returned to Montevideo. Amid many rumors, they decided to hold a conference. The group was represented by the remaining members of the Old Christian team: Canessa, Zerbino, and Vizintin. Each boy had a topic to address. The discussion of cannibalism was left up to Pancho Delgado, who delivered an eloquent speech. If there had been any lingering doubt of their motives, Delgado made it clear that their actions were completed with the utmost of reverence for their departed friends. The whole room listened intently and let up a cheer after he finished speaking.

Many of the survivors drifted into obscurity, which suited them well. Delgado continued to attend interviews and speak publicly when asked. Parrado had come close to death, conquered it, and learned the depths of his strength. While...