.png)
The Big Book Project
The Big Book Project is a multi-venue reading experience for bibliophiles fascinated by long or dense works of fiction and interested in discussing them with others, one novel at a time.
The works selected will be capacious novels from the mid-nineteenth century through today that possess an abundant writing style or complexity in structure and themes.
The notion that reading need not be a solitary activity has special resonance with these novels given that there is much to discuss, elaborate upon and question in the authors’ expression of ideas. I like to think of these novels as abundant because I appreciate their richness and volume, characteristics bestow a sort of grace to luxuriate with the text.
The critic and scholar Alexander Nehamas writes that when a work of art beckons, it is because we do not fully understand it but feel the strong desire to do so. And it is this deliberative process, the journey, of trying to understand why a novel is extraordinary that I want to explore with fellow readers at The Big Book Project.
We discuss books like Roberto Bolaño’s 2666
The Big Book Project
2666 Book Discussion: Fate, Coincidence, and the Search for Archimboldi
In this episode of The Big Book Project, we delve into the second half of Part One of Roberto Bolaño's 2666, focusing on the critics' journey to Mexico in search of the elusive author, Archimboldi. The episode explores several key themes, including the unsettling encounter with the self-mutilating artist, Edwin Johns, and his chilling philosophy on fate and coincidence.
We delve into the critics' quest for Archimboldi, highlighting their ambition and arrogance. Their journey is fraught with unexpected obstacles and cultural clashes, revealing their condescending attitude towards the Mexican people. The episode also examines Morini's decision to remain in Europe, a poignant reflection on the nature of literary appreciation and the internal journey of the soul.
The concept of fate is explored through the lens of Edwin Johns' philosophy and Amalfitano's perspective on exile. We discuss the significance of the recurring motif of taxi driver beatings, analyze the symbolism of the distinguishing features in the critics' hotel rooms and their subsequent dreams, and consider the implications of Amalfitano's statement that "exile abolishes fate."
Finally, the episode explores the potential significance of the numerous characters with names beginning with "A," raising questions about the critics' perception and treatment of the Mexican people.
Join the conversation on Substack! Share your thoughts, interpretations, and questions about the reading.
Links and Resources:
The Big Book Project on Substack
Roberto Bolaño’s 2666: Purchase the Book
Follow on Instagram
Watch on Youtube