"Optic Nerve" is an elegant tapestry of interconnected stories, blending art criticism, autobiographical reflections, and absorbing narratives. María Gainza weaves the tale of an Argentine woman whose life is as rich and complex as the paintings she adores. As she navigates the bustling streets of Buenos Aires, from galleries to quiet moments in her own turbulent family life, she discovers in the masterpieces a mirror for her soul. Through vivid encounters with art—be it El Greco's disdain for Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel frescoes, to Rothko's mysterious unfinished murals, or Picasso's stern banquet for Rousseau—the protagonist reveals a profound connection between life and art. Each canvas becomes a reflection of her own experiences, as art and personal journey intertwine to tell a story of loss, love, and the immutable power of creativity.