In The Beginning Was The Sea by Tomás González

The novel follows a disillusioned urban couple who seek to escape the chaos and superficiality of city life by moving to a remote tropical coast in Colombia. Dreaming of a simpler existence and self-sufficiency, they purchase a decrepit estate, but their idealistic venture quickly deteriorates as they face a harsh reality. The couple's relationship strains under the pressures of the unforgiving environment, isolation, and the challenges of their new rural life, leading to a tragic culmination. The story is a profound meditation on the complexities of nature, the fragility of human ambition, and the illusory nature of utopian dreams.

The 6749th greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 60

Since this book was first published in 1983, there is a penalty of 14.4%. The age adjusted score is 51.36.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.