The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition Book Summary

by Fernando Pessoa182

TL;DR

The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition is an introspective masterpiece by Fernando Pessoa, compiled from his heteronym Bernardo Soares' melancholic and philosophical reflections on life.

Cover of The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition Book Summary

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What is The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition about

The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition offers a unique literary experience as it delves into the existential musings of Fernando Pessoa’s semi-heteronym, Bernardo Soares. Presented in a chronological and complete English edition translated by Margaret Jull Costa, this work is a collection of fragmented yet deeply introspective observations, aphorisms, and reflections on the human condition. Originally published posthumously in Portuguese in 1982, this edition captures the essence of Pessoa’s poignant and contemplative writing style, spanning his entire literary career.

The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition 6 Key Takeaways

Existential Exploration

The book delves deep into the nature of existence and the human condition through the fragmented thoughts of Bernardo Soares, offering profound insights into life’s meaning and purpose.

Introspective Reflections

Soares’ observations are deeply personal and introspective, revealing the inner workings of his mind as he contemplates solitude, identity, and the passage of time.

Melancholy and Solitude

A pervasive sense of melancholy and solitude runs throughout the text, encapsulating the emotional landscape of Soares’ inner world.

Literary Fragmentation

The text is presented in a non-linear, fragmented format, mirroring the chaotic and disjointed nature of human thought and experience.

Philosophical Aphorisms

The book is rich with aphorisms that encapsulate complex philosophical ideas in succinct, thought-provoking statements.

Autobiographical Elements

While fictional, the book contains autobiographical elements that reflect Pessoa’s own existential struggles and literary genius.

Top The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition Quotes

  • 'I am nothing. I shall always be nothing. I cannot wish to be anything. Apart from this, I have within me all the dreams of the world.'
  • 'Life is whatever we conceive it to be. For the natives of cold countries, happiness is a different thing than it is for those who live in the tropics.'

Who should read The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition?

The Book of Disquiet is ideal for readers who appreciate introspective and philosophical literature. Those interested in modernist literature and existential reflections will find this book particularly engaging and thought-provoking.

About the Author

Fernando Pessoa (1888-1935) was a Portuguese poet, writer, literary critic, and translator, known for his highly original and influential works. He wrote under various heteronyms, each with its own distinct voice and personality. Pessoa’s literary contributions have earned him a place among the greatest modernist writers. His most famous work, The Book of Disquiet, continues to captivate readers with its profound existential insights.

The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition Best Reviews

  • 'A wordy, yet luminous portrayal of the human condition. Pessoa’s work transcends time and offers a deep dive into the soul.' — The Guardian
  • 'An unparalleled reflection of modernist literature. Pessoa’s fragmented thoughts resonate with a quiet intensity.' — The New York Times

The Book of Disquiet: The Complete Edition FAQs

Which translation for The Book of Disquiet is better?

The best English-language version is translated by Richard Zenith and published by Penguin, but the Margaret Jull Costa translation is praised for its completeness and readability.

How long does it take to read The Book of Disquiet?

The average reader will spend around 8 hours and 8 minutes reading this book at 250 words per minute.

What is the meaning of The Book of Disquiet?

The main message of The Book of Disquiet is the exploration of the human condition and the introspective nature of life.