Point of View

Roberto Bolaño's 2666 employs a complex and varied approach to point of view, reflecting the novel's sprawling narrative and thematic depth. Throughout its five parts, the novel shifts between different perspectives and narrative styles, creating a multifaceted exploration of its central themes and characters.

In The Part About the Critics, Bolaño primarily uses a third-person omniscient narrator. This allows him to delve into the thoughts and motivations of multiple characters, particularly the four literary critics. The narrator moves seamlessly between their perspectives, providing insight into their academic pursuits, personal relationships, and growing obsession with Archimboldi. This approach creates a sense of intimacy with the characters while maintaining a degree of narrative distance, allowing for both empathy and critique.

The Part About Amalfitano continues with a third-person perspective but narrows its focus to Óscar Amalfitano. The narration becomes more subjective, often blurring the lines between...