The Book of Names

Interesting Facts

• The book explores themes of identity and bureaucracy through the story of a clerk working in the registry of births and deaths.
• The main character, known only as Senhor José, becomes obsessed with finding information about a woman whose name he accidentally discovers in the documents.
• The novel examines the concept of anonymity and the importance of names in society, highlighting how they shape our identity.
• The work features Saramago's unique writing style, which includes long sentences and minimal punctuation, creating a stream of consciousness effect.
• The book also touches on themes of loneliness and the search for meaning in life, showing how the main character tries to connect with others through their names.