Two Words by Isabel Allende - Reader Response Theory

In my opinion, the two words that Belisa whispers to the Colonel in Isabel Allende’s short story, Two Words, are irrelevant to the overall story, as it is Belisa’s charm and power over the Colonel that gives the words meaning. In the social hierarchy, the Colonel is clearly far above Belisa. He is a powerful and revered mercenary, planning on running for a position within the government. Belisa on the other hand, is a poor, likely poverty-stricken lower class vendor. "Belisa Crepusculario had been born into a family so poor they did not even have names to give their children." Such immense poverty leads one to question the validity of Belisa’s name - whether it is her real name, stage name, or simply a fabrication that she changes from story to story. The reiteration of Belisa’s low class further establishes her as a character that is below the Colonel, and not even a part of his world. However, it is this dynamic that ironically gives Belisa power over the Colonel. He longs for her, seeks her out, and uses violent methods to gain her services. After finding her at the market, the Colonel “bound her hand and foot, and threw her like a sea bag across the rump of El Mulato's mount,” proving he will do anything and everything for Belisa. This strong need for the woman shows a desperation in the Colonel, which weakens his character, and puts him in a position to be used by Belisa. Belisa, having been defined as a highly intellectual character (through her occupation alone) obviously takes advantage of this situation.

I feel as though Belisa’s illusion and prowess over the Colonel lead him to revere her as an almost Goddess-like being. For once, the Colonel is faced with an enigma he cannot solve, and Belisa’s decision to “give [him] two secret words,” and tell him to “use them as much as you please,” adds another layer to the puzzle. It is this sheer confusion that plummets the Colonel into his Hamlet-eque pit of despair.

To me, I think it is never intended for the reader to know what the two words are. Speculation is bound to happen, however, there is no solid evidence in the text to support any two words over others. I believe that Allende has consciously made the decision to not tell the reader the two words to emphasize the character of Belisa Crepusculario. By doing this, the reader can identify with the Colonel’s mystification, and ultimately, respect Belisa as a passionate, alluring, strategic and powerful woman.