maybe i didn't get it, but very disappointing book. the structure is certainly compelling - it's like Bolano thought of an interesting structure but forgot to write a good story. the first section really is interesting and was ready to love that book, and it took a surprise twist.... that got sidelined for 450 pages??

the middle 450 pages are long and boring, there's little to no coherent plot. bunch of pointless vignettes that when i found out belano is based on bolano, are extremely cringey. none of the other characters are fleshed out into anything interesting. also half the time its just bragging about what poets these guys have read. if i wanted to read boring people talk about how much they love other poets (without actually referencing the poetry in any real way), i'd just go back to tumblr.

the ending section is silly and all the air of the story had been let out, so it landed with a big loud thud for me. (why do i care about cesarea tinajero??? please someone tell me why this person is of interest in any way). overall, started off interesting before losing all its steam and landing in the mud