Mary's dedication to Cuba's people led her from riches to rags, witnessing the island's complex history. Though failing literally, she metaphorically outlived Castro, becoming a resident interloper whose spirit embodies perseverance.
Mary McCarthy fell in love with the people of Cuba. Hers is a story that bears witness to the complicated history of a country and the unchanging spirit of a dedicated soul who failed in the literal sense, but succeeded metaphorically in her goal of outliving Castro. A 'riches to rags' story of an interloper who becomes the denizen.