Character Analysis
Leona is a highly significant character in Florentino Ariza's life. The two of them are remarkably similar – one might argue that she is the female version of himself. Thought they are both highly sexual characters, Leona and Florentino never have a physical relationship. When Florentino finally tries to pull a move on her, late in their relationship, Leona dismisses him, saying it would be like "going to bed with the son she never had" (4.66). From the day she boldly approaches Florentino and asks for a job, Leona is Florentino's right-hand woman, impressing his superiors and helping Florentino move up the corporate ladder by making him look good.