Status Updates From The Spanish Civil War

Was on p. 450 8 years ago, but couldn’t finish while in Spain. Starting 5 weeks before my next trip on xiii Preface. It’s going to be a race before trip. Enjoyed previously, but need to refresh memory.

'But to another journalist [Azaña] admitted more accurately, "Sol y sombra! Light and shade! That is Spain."'

'"Café gossip," answered Azaña. "I heard it in the Cortes," returned Fischer. "Ah, that's one big café," replied Azaña'

'Companys and his counsellors left prison to be hailed once again as leaders of their beloved city amid scenes of enthusiasm such as even Barcelona's leafy and flower-laden avenues had never seen.' What does this even mean? What does urban greenery have to do with celebration? Utterly bizarre stylistic choices in this book