Roberto Bolaño's Posthumous Essay Collection 'Entre Parenthèses'

Éditions Christian Bourgois has published 'Entre parenthèses', a posthumous collection of essays, articles, and speeches by Roberto Bolaño, who died in 2003. The book pieces together a fragmented self-portrait, ranging from a brief 1999 'Autoportrait' to a candid 2003 Playboy interview. Bolaño reveals himself as a discerning reader, claiming to be 'much happier reading than writing', and praises poets like Nicanor Parra, who serves as a touchstone throughout. Other admired writers include Vila-Matas, Pitol, Marías, Linh, Marsé, Lemebel, Pauls, Borges, Kafka, and Melville. A section titled 'Three Unbearable Speeches' reflects his provocative side, though he notes having learned 'the difficult art of tolerance' and that 'getting angry is a waste of time'. Chronicles written for various newspapers offer insights into his life in Blanes, Spain, and his views on exile as a joyful, liberating choice. After twenty-five years, he returned to his native Chile, delivering harsh critiques of his 'country-corridor'. The collection is described as one of the most stimulating books to read today, praised for its courage and delicacy.