The Tunnel
The Tunnel
Book Brief
Beta652
Novel • Fiction
Buenos Aires, Argentina • 1940s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Tunnel by Ernesto Sabato explores the mind of an introspective painter who becomes obsessed with a woman. The narrative delves into themes of existential angst, isolation, and the complexity of human relationships. This psychological thriller captures the artist's descent into darkness and the impact of his fixation.
Reviews & Readership
1,919 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ernesto Sabato's The Tunnel is often praised for its gripping, psychological depth and existential exploration. Readers commend its intense narrative and complex protagonist but note it occasionally feels bleak and claustrophobic. Though its themes are compelling, some find the protagonist's actions unsettling. Overall, it's a powerful yet dark read befitting introspective readers.
Who Should Read The Tunnel?
Readers who appreciate existential and psychological exploration akin to Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment or Camus' The Stranger will find The Tunnel by Ernesto Sabato compelling. Ideal for those drawn to intense inner monologues, moral ambiguity, and the darker facets of human nature.
1,919 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ernesto Sabato was originally a physicist and gave up a promising scientific career to become a writer and painter, blending existential themes into his literary works such as The Tunnel.
The Tunnel was first published in 1948 and quickly gained international acclaim, making it a cornerstone of Latin American existential literature.
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The novel caught the attention of Albert Camus, who helped to introduce it to a French audience by publishing it in the prestigious Gallimard edition.
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652
Novel • Fiction
Buenos Aires, Argentina • 1940s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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