Blindness

by José Saramago, Jose Saramago
Blindness cover
Good Books rating 4.19
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Format • £9.49
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  • ID: 1160
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2026-03-10
  • ISBN: 9780099532163
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2008-11-13
  • Formats: 16
  • Reviews: 4

In 'Blindness,' a sudden and inexplicable epidemic of white blindness sweeps through a city, turning the world upside down. As the afflicted are quarantined in a mental asylum, the fragile remnants of civilization begin to crumble. The novel explores themes of human nature, societal collapse, and the struggle for survival in the face of an unseen enemy. /n/n Written by Nobel Prize-winning author José Saramago, 'Blindness' is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. The novel's unique narrative style and profound insights into the human psyche make it a powerful and unforgettable read.

Reviews
At Boundary's Edge · 2023-03-02
engaging 4.50

The reviewer praises the novel's premise and its exploration of societal collapse. They find the story gripping and the characters' struggles poignant.

The reviewer at At Boundary's Edge is quite positive about 'Blindness'. They find the premise of an epidemic of blindness both unique and gripping. The reviewer appreciates how the novel delves into the fragility of civilization and the human condition. They highlight the poignant struggles of the characters and the stark portrayal of societal collapse. Overall, they find the book a powerful and unforgettable read that stays with you long after finishing it.

Quick quotes

    When a man suddenly loses his vision, it causes an accident. But when this blindness spreads through the population, it threatens everything civilization stands for.

    The novel delves into the fragility of civilization and the human condition.

    The struggles of the characters are poignant and the portrayal of societal collapse is stark.

Classics Considered · 2021-03-02
thought-provoking 3.00

The reviewer criticizes Saramago's assumption of readers' lack of imagination. They find the book thought-provoking but also challenging due to its heavy-handed approach.

The reviewer at Classics Considered has a somewhat critical take on 'Blindness'. They feel that Saramago underestimates his readers' imagination, which makes the reading experience a bit heavy-handed. However, they also acknowledge the book's thought-provoking nature. The reviewer points out that the novel's exploration of societal collapse and human nature is compelling, but the delivery sometimes feels overly didactic. Overall, they appreciate the depth of the themes but wish the storytelling was more subtle.

Quick quotes

    Saramago seems to think his readers have very little imagination.

    The book is thought-provoking but also challenging due to its heavy-handed approach.

    The novel's exploration of societal collapse and human nature is compelling.

Words and Peace · 2013-08-30
powerful 4.75

The descriptions of settings and characters are vivid, showcasing the author's deep understanding of blindness. The book is a powerful and moving experience.

The reviewer at Words and Peace is particularly impressed with the vivid descriptions of settings and characters, which bring the story to life. They appreciate the author's deep understanding of blindness, which is evident in the authentic portrayal of the characters' experiences. The reviewer finds the book to be a powerful and moving exploration of human resilience and the breakdown of societal norms. The emotional depth and authenticity of the narrative make it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    I loved the descriptions of settings and characters.

    The author must know blind people himself, seeing how good he is at translating their experiences.

    The book is a powerful and moving experience.

Tony's Reading List · 2013-06-13
praise 4.50

The book is praised for its great premise and unique exploration of blindness. The story is engaging and thought-provoking, with a compelling narrative.

This reviewer highly recommends the book for its unique premise and engaging narrative. They appreciate the unusual type of blindness depicted and the way it drives the story forward. The book is seen as a great exploration of an unprecedented epidemic and its consequences, making it a compelling read. The reviewer finds the story thought-provoking and believes it offers a fresh perspective on human behavior and societal structures.

Quick quotes

    It's a great premise and a great book, the story of an unprecedented epidemic and its consequences.

    Even the type of blindness is unusual.

    The book offers a fresh perspective on human behavior and societal structures.

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