The Borges Enigma: Mirrors, Doubles, and Intimate Puzzles

This book explores how Borges uses events and experiences from his own life to structure his work, revealing hidden personal, emotional, and spiritual dimensions in his canonical short stories.

Format: Hardback
Length: 314 pages
Publication date: 18 June 2021
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

Borges' Literary Craftsmanship and the Intimate Puzzles of His Fictions

Borges, renowned for his supreme literary craftsmanship, has always maintained a fascinating stance regarding the creation of characters. He once remarked that he had never created a character, instead opting to present himself subtly disguised within his writings. This intriguing perspective is explored in depth in this book, which delves into the ways in which Borges weaves events and experiences from his own life into the fabric of his work. By examining these experiences, despite their heavily disguised nature, the book aims to demonstrate how they become the principal structuring motifs of Borges' remarkable oeuvre.

One of the central objectives of this book is to showcase how these disguised experiences find their way into some of Borges' most canonical short stories, particularly from the celebrated collections "Ficciones" and "El Aleph." Through a meticulous analysis of these stories, the book offers fresh readings that unveil their hidden personal, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. By delving into the intricate tapestry of symmetries, doubles, and allusions, as well as the roles played by translation and the figure of the creator, the book provides a profound understanding of Borges' literary craftsmanship.

Through these insightful interpretations, readers gain a deeper appreciation for Borges' ability to create intricate fictions that transcend the boundaries of traditional storytelling. The book sheds light on the intimate puzzles that lie within his works, inviting readers to engage in a thoughtful exploration of the layers of meaning and symbolism that enrich his literary creations. By delving into the personal experiences that shaped Borges' writing, this book offers a unique perspective on his supreme literary craftsmanship and the profound impact that his fictions have had on the world of literature.

Weight: 606g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781855663497