Seeing

Brief Overview

The book «Seeing» by José Saramago begins with elections in an unnamed capital, where the majority of voters decide to cast blank ballots. This triggers a political crisis and panic among the authorities, who struggle to understand the reasons behind such a mass act. The government launches an investigation, declares a state of emergency, and intensifies repression, which only heightens public discontent. At the heart of the plot is the question of the nature of democracy and power, as well as what happens when people begin to realize their strength and responsibility. Saramago explores themes of collective consciousness, civic responsibility, and the moral blindness of society.