Exploring “The Galpon” (The Shed): Reflection on the Human Condition, Double Standards, and Corporate Social Responsibility
In the novel “The Galpon,” the characters Ethan, a lifelong manager at HanssenBox, and Oliver, an external advisor accompanying the process, take center stage in a microcosm nestled in the southeastern corner of the United States. They operate under the command of a rather somber entrepreneur who plunges them into episodes of mutual distrust, egocentrism, and insecurity. The novel unfolds over a span of 40 years, during which the lives of these two individuals are systematically affected by the weight of extremist ideologies. HanssenBox navigates through the circumstances imposed by destiny during a time when the advent of the internet and the propulsion of e-commerce embark on an overwhelming and irreversible advancement.
«When the human condition directly influences the success or failure of human endeavors, those who do not evolve regress… likewise, even though frivolity currently governs the markets, their results are ultimately a consequence of human influence.»
In my novel “The Galpon” (The Shed), I’ve aimed to capture the complexity of the human condition and how it influences success or failure in the business world. Throughout the plot, the main characters, Ethan and Oliver, find themselves immersed in a microcosm in the southeastern United States, under the gloomy direction of an entrepreneur who drags them into a whirlwind of distrust, egocentrism, and insecurity. Over a span of 40 years, their lives are shaped by extremist ideologies, coinciding with the advent of the internet and the rise of e-commerce. My goal in writing this novel was to delve into the psychology of the characters, especially Ethan and Oliver. The protagonists embody the internal struggle of the human condition to achieve success in a highly competitive world. I wanted to show how their actions and decisions reflect their own weaknesses, desires, and deeper longings. The term “Galpon” holds a significant connotation as it represents the warehouses of merchandise in a country like Venezuela, where parts of the story are set. One of the central themes of the novel is double standards in the business world. Through the characters, I explored how individuals often find themselves trapped in the contradiction of professing certain values while acting against them in pursuit of business success. This duality unintentionally manifests when business circumstances clash with personal beliefs, creating internal conflicts and ethical dilemmas. Double standards are a fundamental aspect that affects both the characters and the plot in “The Galpon” (The Shed). Today, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become a fundamental pillar for the sustainable success of companies. Through the novel, I wanted to remind readers of the importance of CSR in an increasingly ethical and sustainability-conscious world. Modern companies cannot ignore CSR if they wish to stay in harmony with society and ensure long-term growth. “The Galpon” offers a unique perspective on how business actions can have a lasting impact on society and the fate of companies. This novel is more than just a story; it’s a profound exploration of human nature and business dynamics in an ever-changing world. Through the characters and their experiences, I invite readers to reflect on their own actions and beliefs in a world where success and failure often depend on how we manage these crucial aspects. For those interested in diving into “The Galpon” (The Shed) and exploring these themes more deeply, the novel is available in various formats, from deluxe editions to e-books. Simply search for “The Galpon” (The Shed) associated with my name as the author on major book retail platforms. I appreciate readers for their interest and ongoing support.
What If Mario Vargas Llosa Was Right? Dissent as Literary Legacy in the Latin American Boom
A three-mile chronicle on cars, tariffs, and the economy of absurdity.
In a Soulless World, Facts Banish Feelings.
William Castaño
William is a Colombian-American writer who captivates readers with his ability to depict both the unique experiences and universal struggles of humanity. Hailing from Colombia’s Coffee Axis, he was born in Armenia and spent his youth in Bogotá, where he studied Marketing and Advertising at Jorge Tadeo Lozano University. In the 1980s, he immigrated to the United States, where he naturalized as a U.S. citizen and held prominent roles as a creative and image leader for projects with major corporations. After a successful career in the marketing world, William decided to fully dedicate himself to his true passion: literature. He began writing at the turn of the century, but it was in 2018 when he made the decision to make writing his primary occupation. He currently resides in Coral Gables, Florida, where he finds inspiration for his works. William’s writing style is distinguished by its depth, humanity, and authenticity. Among his most notable works are ‘The Beggars of Mercury’s Light: We the Other People’, ‘The Galpon’, ‘Flowers for María Sucel’, ‘ Ludovico’, and ‘We’ll meet in Stockholm”.
