Book Review – 38 - Blindness by José Saramago

Book Review – 38 - Blindness by José Saramago

Title: Blindness. Author: José Saramago. Publication Details: Originally published in 1995 by Editorial Caminho; English translation by Giovanni Pontiero in 1997. Genre: Dystopian Fiction, Allegorical Novel.

Introduction

Blindness by José Saramago is a harrowing and thought-provoking novel that delves into the fragility of civilization and the darkness within human nature when societal norms collapse. This work, marked by Saramago’s unique narrative style, is an allegory exploring themes of blindness both literal and metaphorical. Its vivid depiction of chaos and moral dilemmas has established it as a modern classic, challenging readers to consider the depths of human resilience and the power of compassion amidst widespread despair.

Summary of the Plot

The story begins with an unexplained epidemic of sudden blindness that sweeps through an unnamed city, sparing no one except for one woman— the doctor’s wife. The affliction spreads rapidly and the government, desperate to control the outbreak, quarantines the infected in an abandoned mental institution. Within these walls, a microcosm of society emerges, showcasing the breakdown of order and the rise of primal instincts. Power struggles, violence and degradation become rampant as the blind attempt to survive. The doctor’s wife, who retains her sight, becomes a beacon of hope and leadership amidst the chaos, guiding a group of survivors through the dystopian reality outside the institution.

Analysis of Themes

The novel is rich with themes that resonate on multiple levels. One of the most prominent is the fragility of societal structures; without the constructs of civilization, humanity quickly regresses into survivalist behaviors. Saramago also explores moral ambiguity and the capacity for both cruelty and kindness in desperate circumstances. The theme of blindness serves as a metaphor for ignorance, selfishness and the inability to see beyond oneself, suggesting that true sight lies in understanding and empathy. The doctor’s wife, as the sole sighted character, represents hope and the moral conscience of humanity, acting selflessly in a world turned dark.

Style and Structure

1. Narrative Style

Saramago’s narrative style is distinctive, characterized by long, flowing sentences and minimal punctuation, often blending dialogue and description seamlessly. This unconventional approach creates a sense of urgency and mimics the chaos and disorientation of the blind characters. The lack of character names, referring to them instead by descriptors such as “the doctor” or “the girl with the dark glasses,” adds to the allegorical and universal nature of the story.

2. Language and Tone

The language in Blindness is stark and unflinching, conveying the brutality and rawness of human behavior in a crisis. Saramago balances this with moments of profound reflection and poetic insights, which highlight the resilience and small acts of kindness that persist even in darkness. The tone shifts between grim and contemplative, emphasizing the duality of hope and despair.

Critical Evaluation

1. Strengths

One of the novel’s strengths lies in its powerful allegory, which invites deep reflection on human nature and society’s dependency on order. Saramago’s ability to create vivid, emotionally charged scenes with minimal character detail is remarkable, allowing readers to project their interpretations onto the nameless figures. The portrayal of the doctor’s wife as a symbol of hope adds depth to the narrative, reinforcing the idea that empathy and selflessness can endure even in the bleakest conditions.

2. Weaknesses

The narrative style, while unique, can be challenging for readers unaccustomed to Saramago’s lack of conventional punctuation and continuous prose. This approach may make it difficult to follow dialogue and shifts in perspective. Additionally, the graphic depictions of violence and suffering may be unsettling for some readers, which, while effective in emphasizing the novel’s themes, could be overwhelming for others.

Conclusion

Blindness by José Saramago is a compelling exploration of human nature, offering a grim but ultimately hopeful look at the human spirit in crisis. Through his unique narrative style and rich allegorical content, Saramago paints a powerful picture of the fine line between order and chaos and the enduring strength of empathy. While the unconventional prose may be difficult for some, the depth and resonance of the story make it an essential read for those interested in profound social and philosophical themes.

References

Saramago, José. Blindness. Editorial Caminho, 1995.

Pontiero, Giovanni (translator). Blindness (English translation). Harcourt, 1997.

Bloom, Harold, editor. José Saramago's Blindness: Modern Critical Interpretations. Chelsea House, 2007.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What inspired Saramago to write Blindness?

Saramago was inspired by the metaphor of blindness as a representation of human ignorance and societal indifference. He aimed to explore what happens when the constructs that keep society together break down, revealing the true nature of humanity.

Why are the characters in Blindness unnamed?

The lack of names emphasizes the universal nature of the story, suggesting that the experiences of the characters could belong to anyone. It also highlights the loss of identity and individuality in the face of collective crisis.

What is the significance of the doctor’s wife being the only sighted character?

The doctor’s wife represents the moral compass and guiding light of the story. Her ability to see amidst widespread blindness symbolizes hope, compassion and the potential for leadership that is driven by empathy rather than power.

What does the epidemic of blindness symbolize in the novel?

The blindness epidemic serves as a metaphor for moral and social blindness— humanity’s inability to see beyond its self-interest, ignorance and the consequences of collective inaction. It reflects on how society responds to crises and the importance of empathy and solidarity.