The Book of Disquiet

Analyze the exchange between the narrative form and the novel’s theme of Identity as a Product of the Imagination. How does the fragmentary structure inform or enable Pessoa’s explorations of identity formation? What are the benefits and deficits of Pessoa’s chosen form?

Explore the narrative, formal, and thematic relationship between Parts 1 and 2. How would the novel change if the fragments from Part 2 were integrated into Part 1? Consider changes in structure, tone, and mood across the sections.

Analyze the relationship between Pessoa and Bernardo Soares. The introduction quotes Pessoa’s assertion that Soares is a “semi-heteronym” in that he is more closely tied to the author than Pessoa’s other heteronyms. What is the significance of the relationship between Pessoa and Soares? Incorporate outside research.