Published on March 25, 2026
Marta Jiménez Serrano recently spoke at the EL PAÍS Book Club about her novel “Oxígeno,” addressing pressing issues such as the housing crisis, intimacy, and trauma. In her perspective, the lack of a stable foundation makes it exceedingly difficult to construct a true home.
During the conversation, Jiménez Serrano emphasized the significance of having a physical and emotional space where individuals can feel safe and secure. “If we don’t have ground to stand on, it becomes very challenging to build a place that feels like home,” she stated, illustrating the challenges many face in contemporary society where economic instability is rampant, pushing people to the brink of desperation.
The conversation shifted to the broader implications of the housing crisis, which disproportionately affects young people and families. Jiménez Serrano argued that the rising cost of living and scarce affordable housing options lead to not just financial strain but also emotional trauma. “Many people are living in a state of anxiety, and it’s crippling. This instability lingers, making it harder to form connections and fully engage with life,” she explained.
Intimacy, she noted, is often a casualty of this instability. When individuals are preoccupied with their immediate survival and housing issues, cultivating relationships and creating a nurturing environment becomes nearly impossible. “True intimacy requires a foundation of security and trust, which are hard to come ’re worried about where you’ll lay your head at night,” Jiménez Serrano asserted.
As the discussion progressed, attendees shared personal stories that resonated with Jiménez Serrano’s observations. The connection between trauma and the housing crisis was evident, revealing how the struggles of the present are intertwined with deeper emotional scars. This dialogue resonated with many present, highlighting the urgent need for societal change.
Throughout her talk, Jiménez Serrano’s passion was palpable, urging listeners to consider the profound impact that secure housing has on mental health and community building. “We must address these issues honestly; otherwise, we risk causing further harm to ourselves and future generations,” she concluded, stressing the importance of holistic solutions to the housing crisis.
The conversation at the EL PAÍS Book Club spotlighted not only the narrative of “Oxígeno” but also the urgent realities facing so many individuals today. Jiménez Serrano’s perspectives remind us of the delicate interplay between housing, trauma, and the essence of what it means to have a home.