José Lezama Lima

José Lezama Lima was a Cuban writer and poet born on December 19, 1910, in Havana, and died on August 9, 1976. He is considered one of the most influential figures in Latin American literature, known for his complex style and baroque prose. His most famous work is the novel 'Paradiso', which is often regarded as a cornerstone of Latin American magical realism. Lezama Lima's writings are characterized by a rich and intricate use of language, exploring themes such as sexuality, religion, and Cuban identity.

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. Paradiso

    "Paradiso" is a dense and lyrical novel that delves into the life of a young Cuban man named José Cemí, exploring his intellectual and sensual coming-of-age against the backdrop of early 20th-century Havana. The narrative is rich with poetic language and complex imagery, weaving together themes of family, sexuality, and the search for identity. Through a series of vivid, dreamlike episodes, the protagonist's personal growth is paralleled with the cultural and historical evolution of Cuba itself, presenting a tapestry of philosophical reflections and a deep dive into the nature of reality, time, and existence.

    The 2223rd Greatest Book of All Time