My First Date, Post-Breakup: An Illustrated Story

Abroad in Argentina, I decide to get back out there.

• Dating in Spanish: Argentinian Spanish is not like the Spanish I grew up speaking. It’s 87.9% regional slang and driven by its own take on grammar ('“vos”). That’s why dating in this local language was daunting, but surprisingly doable! I got to write/speak/adventure in my second tongue and learn a ton of new words along the way.

• Friend-zoning: I get the appeal of ghosting. You avoid the awkwardness of admitting disinterest by running away. Honesty is harder (though ultimately kinder). Recently, I mustered the courage to admit how I truly feel—platonic!—and it was taken surprisingly well.

• Posting this story: If you had asked me a year ago if I would ever publicly share a dating story on the internet, I would have laughed, incredulous. Me? No. I am naturally reserved about my personal life—even with friends. But you know what they say? Breakups lead to growth. And so does fighting your fears.

---

Tatiana Gallardo is a copywriter and illustrator currently based in Buenos Aires. Soon, she’ll be back in the land of the young, wild, and single: New York City.