Roberto Arlt

Roberto Arlt was an influential Argentine writer, novelist, playwright, and journalist. He is best known for his novels 'El juguete rabioso', 'Los siete locos', and 'Los lanzallamas', which are considered classics of Argentine literature. Arlt's work often explored themes of social injustice, existential angst, and the struggles of the urban poor.

Books

Ranked Books All Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Seven Madmen

    Cover of 'The Seven Madmen' by Roberto Arlt

    "Los Siete Locos" is a complex and dark novel set in the 1920s in Buenos Aires. The story revolves around a man who, disillusioned with his mundane life and the corruption he sees around him, becomes involved with a group of anarchists who plan to overthrow the government. The protagonist is drawn into a world of madness, conspiracy, and philosophical debate, as he grapples with his own sanity and the morality of his actions. The book explores themes of existentialism, societal decay, and the blurred line between sanity and insanity.

    The 930th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Los lanzallamas

    Cover of 'Los lanzallamas' by Roberto Arlt

    "Los lanzallamas" is a novel set in Buenos Aires in the 1920s, revolving around the lives of a group of characters who are marginalized by society. The protagonist, a failed inventor turned anarchist, is manipulated into participating in a plot to overthrow the government and establish a new social order. The plot fails, leading to tragic consequences for the characters involved. The novel explores themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the struggle for individual freedom in a repressive society.

    The 3079th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. El Juguete Rabioso

    Cover of 'El Juguete Rabioso' by Roberto Arlt

    Set in the bustling streets of early 20th-century Buenos Aires, this coming-of-age novel follows the tumultuous journey of a young man named Silvio Astier. As he navigates the challenges of adolescence, Silvio grapples with his ambitions, societal expectations, and the harsh realities of urban life. Through a series of misadventures, including petty crime and failed attempts at self-improvement, he seeks to carve out his identity and find his place in a world that often feels indifferent to his dreams. The narrative captures the raw energy and existential angst of youth, painting a vivid portrait of a restless spirit in search of meaning.

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