One day, the Iberian Peninsula splits away from Europe along the Pyrenees, and drifts into the Atlantic like a giant raft. José Saramago uses this absurd event to follow five people who each have a mysterious experience: Joana Carda, who scratches a line in the ground, José Anaiço, who is followed by starlings, Joaquim Sassa, who throws a stone, and others, along with a dog. They meet, and set out together in a horse cart.
It is a book for readers who like philosophical fables, and for anyone interested in Portugal, Spain and their place in Europe. Saramago's long paragraphs and sly humor reward patience.
Deep, contemplative, open-ended and thought-provoking; a moderate read.
Best for readers like The Literary Connoisseur. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 1986
- Language
- EN
