Conversations - Volume 2

Jorge Luis Borges' conversations with Osvaldo Ferrari, recorded during his final years, provide a wide-ranging reflection on his life and work. They cover topics such as epic poetry, detective fiction, Buddhism, and the moon landing, and delve into Borges' philosophical basis, religious mysticism, and personal experiences. The conversations emphasize a life lived through books, with Borges drawing on a mental library of world literature and mapping his changing attitudes to a personal canon. The prologue celebrates dialogue and the transmission of culture across time and place.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2023
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

In this captivating second volume of Jorge Luis Borges' conversations with Osvaldo Ferrari, the reader is transported into a rich tapestry of reflections on the life and work of Argentina's esteemed master writer and beloved conversationalist. Recorded during the final years of Borges' extraordinary life, this collection offers a profound exploration of his intellectual and artistic endeavors.

Borges and Ferrari engage in an improvisational and often humorous dialogue, traversing a wide range of subjects that include epic poetry, detective fiction, Buddhism, and the moon landing. With his signature wit, Borges delves into the philosophical underpinnings of his stories and poems, his fascination with religious mysticism, and the concept of life as a dream. He also shares personal anecdotes, revealing the influence of his mother and father on his intellectual development, his friendships, and his experience of living with blindness.

These recollections are vividly captured against the backdrop of historical events, whether it be the changing landscape of Buenos Aires or the unfolding political conflicts. Throughout, Borges ponders his "South American destiny," reflecting on the profound impact of history on his life and work.

A recurring theme throughout these conversations is a life lived through books. Borges draws upon a vast mental library that encompasses world literature, from ancient to modern. He reminisces about the works that have remained etched in his memory, charting the evolution of his evolving attitudes toward a highly personal canon. In the prologue to the volume, Borges celebrates the power of dialogue and the transmission of culture across time and space.

These conversations serve as a testament to Borges' remarkable ability to navigate and intertwine with numerous traditions. They reveal his profound intellectual curiosity, his mastery of language, and his unwavering commitment to exploring the depths of human existence. Through his engaging and insightful conversations with Ferrari, Borges leaves an indelible mark on the literary world, leaving us with a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 139 x 204 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803092720