Clarice Lispector
Clarice Lispector was a Brazilian novelist and short story writer acclaimed for her innovative narratives and introspective approach to fiction. Born on December 10, 1920, in Ukraine, she was brought to Brazil as an infant. Lispector is considered one of the most important Brazilian writers of the 20th century. Her works, which include novels such as 'The Hour of the Star' and 'Near to the Wild Heart', delve deeply into the inner lives of her characters and explore themes of identity, existence, and the human condition. She passed away on December 9, 1977.
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.
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1. The Hour of the Star
"The Hour of the Star" is a poignant narrative that explores the life of Macabéa, a poor, unattractive, and naive typist living in the slums of Rio de Janeiro. The story is narrated by Rodrigo S.M., a sophisticated writer who struggles with how to accurately portray Macabéa's simple existence and her tragic fate. The novel delves into themes of identity, poverty, and the human condition, presenting a stark contrast between the lives of the rich and the poor, the educated and the ignorant, and the beautiful and the plain.
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2. The Passion According to G.H.
"The Passion According to G.H." is a philosophical novel that delves into the existential crisis of a wealthy Brazilian woman who, after killing a cockroach in her maid's room, experiences a profound metaphysical crisis. The narrative unfolds as a stream of consciousness that explores themes of identity, existence, and the nature of reality. The protagonist's journey forces her to confront her own humanity, the concept of nothingness, and the chaotic, interconnected nature of life. It's a profound and introspective exploration of the human condition and the meaning of existence.
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3. Near To The Wild Heart
The novel delves into the inner life of Joana, a young woman with a complex and introspective nature, as she navigates the vicissitudes of her existence. Through a non-linear narrative and a stream-of-consciousness technique, the reader is immersed in Joana's thoughts and experiences, ranging from her childhood to her adult relationships, including her marriage to Otávio. The protagonist's search for meaning and understanding of her own identity unfolds in poetic and philosophical reflections, revealing the struggles of self-discovery and the desire to transcend the ordinary, bringing her metaphorically 'near to the wild heart' of life itself.
