The Cave

Book Review

The novel «The Cave» by José Saramago is a profound philosophical reflection on modern society and its values. Critics note that Saramago masterfully uses the metaphor of the cave, referencing the Platonic myth, to explore themes of isolation, alienation, and the search for truth. The main character, potter Cipriano Algor, faces the challenges posed by the modern world, symbolized by the Center — a massive shopping complex. Critics emphasize that Saramago succeeds in creating an atmosphere of anxiety and uncertainty, reflecting the fears and doubts of individuals in the face of technological progress and globalization. The author's style, with its long sentences and lack of traditional punctuation, requires the reader's attention and focus, which, according to critics, only enhances the immersive effect of the world created by the writer. «The Cave» is not only a social critique but also a deep exploration of human nature, making the novel relevant even today.