Antonio Carrizo entrevista a Jorge Luis Borges (1979)

In the 1979 interview between Antonio Carrizo and Jorge Luis Borges, Borges reflects on his complex relationship with his own identity as a writer and the persona of "Borges" that exists in the public eye. He discusses themes of memory, oblivion, and the nature of existence, often intertwining philosophical ideas with personal anecdotes. Borges expresses a sense of duality in his existence, feeling both as an individual and as a representation of a collective literary tradition.

Artistic Techniques and Concepts:

• Dual Identity: Borges explores the distinction between his personal self and the public persona associated with his literary works.
• Philosophical Reflections: He references philosophers like Spinoza and Whitman, discussing concepts of existence, memory, and the human condition.
• Literary Tradition: Borges emphasizes the idea that great literature transcends individual ownership, belonging instead to language and tradition.
• Personal Anecdotes: He shares stories about his family, particularly his mother, and their influence on his life and work.
• Imagery and Symbolism: Borges uses vivid imagery to convey emotions and philosophical ideas, such as the symbolism of hourglasses and maps.

Key Points Discussed:

• The relationship between the writer and their work, and how literature can reflect personal experiences.
• The significance of memory and oblivion in shaping identity.
• The idea that all individuals embody multitudes, influenced by their ancestors and experiences.
• The role of creativity and the continuous process of writing and revising.
• Borges's thoughts on the nature of happiness and the importance of celebrating life.

Contributors:

• Jorge Luis Borges: Renowned Argentine writer and philosopher.
• Antonio Carrizo: Interviewer and host.
• María Kodama: Borges's collaborator and companion, who also contributed to the discussion.