By Night in Chile

by Roberto Bolano
By Night in Chile cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Literary Fiction
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  • ID: 3408
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • Published: 2000-01-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

By Night in Chile is a powerful and unsettling novella by Roberto Bolaño that uses the dying words of a Catholic priest to expose the dark underbelly of Chile's political landscape during the Pinochet regime. The story unfolds through a feverish monologue, revealing the priest's complex relationships with influential figures, including poets, politicians, and the dictator himself. Through the priest's confessions, Bolaño masterfully weaves a tale of moral compromise and the corrupting influence of power. The novella is a scathing critique of the Church's complicity in political oppression, blending historical events with a surreal and haunting narrative that leaves a lasting impact.

Reviews
Mookse and Gripes · 2009-07-24
engaging 4.00

They note that this is the first conventional novel by Bolaño they've read, appreciating its narrative cohesion and structure.

This reviewer points out that 'By Night in Chile' is the first conventional novel by Bolaño they have encountered, which makes it a unique experience. The book's narrative cohesion and structure are particularly praised, providing a satisfying read that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The reviewer appreciates Bolaño's ability to maintain a consistent and compelling narrative throughout the book, making it a standout piece in his oeuvre. The historical and political themes are seamlessly integrated into the story, adding depth and complexity to the reading experience.

Quick quotes

    In a way, By Night in Chile is the first conventional novel I've read by Bolaño

    It has a beginning and an end and narrative cohesion

    Still, it has a unique and compelling narrative structure

The New York Times · 2004-01-16
unsettling 3.50

They describe the book as a 130-page rant that is part confession, part justification, and part delirium by a dying man.

The New York Times reviewer characterizes 'By Night in Chile' as a intense and unrelenting monologue from a dying priest. The book is described as a rant that blends confession, justification, and delirium, offering a raw and unfiltered look into the mind of its protagonist. The reviewer finds the narrative powerful and unsettling, highlighting Bolaño's ability to create a sense of urgency and desperation. The historical context of the Pinochet era adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it a compelling read that lingers in the mind long after the last page.

Quick quotes

    His novel 'By Night in Chile' is a 130-page rant -- part confession, part justification, part delirium -- by a dying man

    The novel is a powerful and unsettling exploration of a turbulent period in Chilean history

    Bolaño's ability to create a sense of urgency and desperation is evident throughout the book

The Guardian · Ben Richards · 2003-02-22
captivating 4.50

They find the book a wonderful and beautifully written analysis of Chilean literary life. The writing is captivating and insightful.

Ben Richards is deeply moved by Roberto Bolaño's 'By Night in Chile', praising its beautiful prose and insightful analysis of Chilean literary life. The reviewer finds the book entrancing, highlighting Bolaño's unique ability to weave a compelling narrative that is both personal and political. Richards appreciates the depth of the characters and the rich historical context that Bolaño brings to life. This book is a testament to Bolaño's skill as a writer, offering a poignant exploration of a turbulent period in Chilean history.

Quick quotes

    Roberto Bolaño's wonderful and beautifully written analysis of Chilean literary life

    Ben Richards is entranced by Roberto Bolaño's By Night in Chile

    It is a captivating and insightful exploration of a complex period in history

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