The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis

Name: The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis
Author: José Saramago

The narrative follows a character who returns to Lisbon after years in Brazil, embodying the persona of Ricardo Reis, a heteronym of the famous Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a politically tumultuous Portugal in the 1930s, marked by the death of Pessoa and the rise of authoritarianism under Salazar. Upon his arrival, Reis grapples with his identity and the existential weight of his past. He navigates the city, reflecting on his life choices, the nature of existence, and the interplay between reality and poetry. His interactions with various characters, including a chambermaid named Lydia and a lawyer named Doctor Sampaio, reveal his internal struggles and the societal dynamics of the time. Reis's relationship with Lydia becomes a focal point, representing both desire and the complexities of class and intimacy. Their encounters are tinged with a sense of longing and regret, as Reis contemplates the futility of his affections and the barriers imposed by their social standings. As the narrative progresses, Reis's thoughts oscillate between philosophical musings and the mundane realities of life in Lisbon. He attends a theater performance that stirs emotions within him, particularly as he observes the disabled daughter of Doctor Sampaio, Marcenda, who embodies the themes of loss and unfulfilled potential. The story culminates in a series of reflections on mortality, the passage of time, and the connections between individuals. Reis's interactions with Pessoa, who appears as a ghostly figure, further complicate his understanding of self and art. The narrative ultimately questions the nature of existence, the role of the artist, and the search for meaning in a world marked by chaos and uncertainty. Through Reis's journey, the text explores themes of identity, memory, and the intersection of personal and collective histories, all while maintaining a rich, introspective tone that invites readers to ponder the complexities of life and art.

By José Saramago · First published 1984 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction · 19 chapters · 169,914 words

First lines

Wise is the man who contents himself with the spectacle of the world. -RICARDO REIS

To choose ways of not acting was ever the concern and scruple of my life. -BERNARDO SOARES

What this Textopian page supports

The Year of the Death of Ricardo Reis is listed on Textopian as a novel by José Saramago, dated 1984 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: José Saramago
Date: 1984 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Magic Realism, Metafiction
Length: 169,914 words
Structure: 19 chapters, 1,010 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes of existence, identity, and the human condition through rich prose and philosophical reflections.
Historical Fiction — Set in the context of early 20th-century Portugal, it intertwines real historical events and figures with fictional narrative.
Philosophical Fiction — The narrative delves into existential questions and the nature of reality, reflecting Saramago's philosophical inquiries.
Magic Realism — The blending of fantastical elements with realistic settings and events characterizes the narrative style.