Chapter 17 - Poetry I: The Ghost That Runs through the Writing

Summary

This essay discusses Roberto Bolaño as a poet and the place and meaning of his poetry in the totality of his work. It characterizes the author’s writing and figure as writer since its beginning in Mexico City in the mid-seventies, and the fate of his writing after his death. It critically evaluates how critics have considered his poetry as well as key studies on his poetry. It reflects on his role in the formation of Infrarealism and the traces and echoes of Infrarealism in his oeuvre, including the connection of his earlier poetics with the major narrative works and later poetry. In reflecting on Bolaño’s influences, it considers the figure and poetic work of Mario Santiago Papasquiaro, whom Bolaño references constantly in his novels and poetry as a major influence in his life and writing. This article argues that Santiago epitomizes the poet’s rebellion and personal ethics and analyzes his influence on Bolaño’s overall poetics.