The Garden of Forking Paths

Historical Context and Significance

«The Garden of Forking Paths» by Jorge Luis Borges is one of the seminal works in the genres of magical realism and postmodernism. Published in 1941, this story delves into themes of time, infinity, and the multiplicity of realities, significantly influencing 20th-century literature. Borges uses the concept of the labyrinth as a metaphor for the complex paths of human choice and destiny. The influence of this work can be seen in the writings of many subsequent authors, as well as in philosophical and literary discussions about the nature of reality and time. The story also contributed to the development of the science fiction genre, anticipating ideas about parallel universes and alternative timelines.