What gender roles make up Antonio's world?

There is a soft side to Antonio that must be recognized. He does not fit the masculine stereotype of males perpetuated by popular culture. Antonio prefers the Virgin of Guadalupe to God and the golden carp because she offers forgiveness and redemption. She is a nurturing matriarchal figure yet holds great power in the hearts of men. Antonio finds the Virgin his most compelling figure in the complicated landscape of Catholicism and local beliefs. The Virgin represents the power and softness of women, which Antonio prefers to the harshness of God and men.