Monday, August 7, 2017

Roberto Bolano's Woes of a True Policeman: Book Review

Woes of a True Policeman: Book Review

By Armando Ortiz

In Woes of a True Policeman, Roberto Bolano seems to weave a narrative that appears to be developing ideas for his magnum opus 2666. Despite this connection, the novel stands independently, centering on new characters like- Padilla. As the lives of Professor Amalfitano, Rosa Amalfitano, Archimboldi, Pancho Monje and Padilla intersect, Bolano delves into the intricate complexities of human relationships, the quest for artistic and human fulfillment, and the enthralling mystery of self-discovery.

Professor Amalfitano’s journey epitomizes the challenges of grappling with identity and political turbulence. As a leftist intellectual, he traverses various Latin American universities, forced to make difficult compromises while embracing his daughter Rosa’s budding independence. Her discovery of his sexuality disrupts their lives, highlighting the contrast between societal expectations and the pursuit of personal truth.

Rosa’s evolution into adulthood echoes her father’s struggles, marked by her relationship with Jordi Carrera and her subsequent relocation to Santa Teresa. As Rosa navigates the streets, we witness her transformation, mirroring the essence of the city itself- constantly flowing, evolving and embracing new identities.

Intriguingly elusive, Archimboldi, the reclusive and revered writer, embodies the allure of literary artistry. Bolano paints a picture of his literary success, yet paradoxically keeps his personal life shrouded in mystery. Archimboldi’s life somehow mirrors the ethereal nature of creativity, where the artist’s true life and essence remains enigmatic, even amidst critical acclaim.

Pancho Monje’s resilience, borne out of adversity, presents a stark contrast to the enigmatic artists. Raised amidst strong women, Pancho’s path into the police force is one of determination and bravery. His infatuation with Rosa adds a foreboding touch to the complexities explored within the novel.

Central to the tale is the writer Padilla, whose presence exudes both the allure and mystery. Amalfitano’s encouragement of Padilla’s writing becomes a poetic dance of letters, underscoring the profound connection between mentor and artist. Padilla’s nocturnal wanderings and encounters with outcasts add layers of intrigue and a hint of darkness to the narrative.

As Bolano weaves the lives of these independent yet interdependent characters, Woes of a True Policeman emerges as a tapestry of self-discovery, intellectual pursuit, and the fragility of human desire. The novel seemingly stands as an extension of 2666, where characters intertwine in Bolano’s world, facing risks and discovering the heartbeats of the cities they call home.

Through the journey of these characters, Bolano explores the universal quest for understanding and rediscovery. Whether it is Professor Amalfitano embracing his true self, Rosa navigating her new world, or Padilla wandering the nocturnal streets, each character embarks on an emotional and social journey that becomes the essence of their existence.

In short, Woes of a True Policeman stands as an independent testament to Bolano’s storytelling mastery, enriched by its interconnectedness to 2666. Within its pages, we witness the human spirit traversing the labyrinth of emotions and societal expectations, captivating us with the rawness and vulnerability of self-discovery. As the characters confront their chimera, it is through their triumphs and tribulations that they transcend mere literary figures, resonating as poignant reflections of our own human complexities.