Jose Saramago Quotes

A collection of quotes by Jose Saramago.

José Saramago was a renowned Portuguese writer, novelist, and playwright. Born on November 16, 1922, in the small village of Azinhaga, Portugal, Saramago developed a passion for literature from an early age. However, his journey as a writer didn't begin until later in life.

After working various jobs, including metalworker, draftsman, and translator, Saramago became a journalist at the age of 25. This experience had a profound impact on his writing style, as he was influenced by the social and political issues he encountered. Saramago's first novel, "Land of Sin," was published in 1947, but it did not receive much critical acclaim.

It was not until the publication of his fourth novel, "Baltasar and Blimunda," in 1982, that Saramago gained international recognition. This work marked the beginning of his unique narrative style, characterized by long sentences and absence of traditional punctuation marks, which became his trademark.

Saramago's most famous novel, "Blindness," published in 1995, won him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1998. The story explores a world where people suddenly lose their sight, examining the dark aspects of human nature and society. Throughout his career, Saramago tackled complex themes such as political oppression, social inequality, and the human condition, often blending reality and fantasy to create poignant narratives.

José Saramago's contribution to literature extended beyond his novels, with works including plays, poetry, and essays. His writing style, innovative techniques, and insightful social commentary firmly established him as one of the most important literary figures of the 20th century.