The Book of Names

Historical Context and Significance

The novel «The Book of Names» (Todos os Nomes) by José Saramago explores themes of identity, bureaucracy, and human existence through the story of a clerk working at the Central Registry. The book raises questions about the significance of names and their role in people's lives, as well as how bureaucratic systems can influence individuals and society. Saramago, a Nobel Prize laureate in Literature, is known for his unique writing style that combines philosophical reflections and social critique. «The Book of Names» continues the author's tradition of exploring complex themes through the lens of everyday life, making it significant in the context of world literature. The novel also reflects Saramago's characteristic style, where the boundaries between reality and fiction are blurred, allowing readers to ponder the deeper aspects of human nature and society.