The Labyrinth of Solitude and Other Writings, Octavio Paz (Nobel, 1990)

In selecting the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, the Swedish Committee has a broad definition of "Literature". This can encompass not only the long form fiction we usually consider as literature, but also lyrics (hello Bob Dylan) or non-fiction. The title piece in this collection is an essay, a first for this book club. Paz writes about solitude in the labyrinth of life's journey as "the profoundest fact of the human condition" he finds it responsible for the Mexican perspective on death, fiesta and identity. The works in the book also cover Paz's analysis of Mexican history both pre-Columbian and colonial. The essays are highly acclaimed and considered some of the "most enduring and powerful works created on Mexico.

Since starting this book club a few years ago we have formed a nice core membership. If you haven't come yet, please look out for the books on the table, pull up a chair, order a wine and join us. We like to hear what everyone has to say and enjoy the conversation, we're not cliquey at all! Oh, and to defray the Meetup monthly bill I will accept gold coin contributions or wine if you want to pay for multiple in one hit. I hope to see everyone again at this one with some new faces.