The Journey of Jorge Luis Borges: From Vision to Blindness

Spanish writer and essayist Jorge Luis Borges was an enigmatic figure in the world of literature, known for his profound philosophical insights and often esoteric stories. His unique literary style and philosophical reflections continue to captivate readers worldwide. Borges's journey from a person with vision to the complete blindness he experienced in his later years is a fascinating aspect of his life that has intrigued scholars and fans alike.

From Vision to Gradual Loss

Contrary to popular perceptions, Borges did not suddenly lose his sight, but rather experienced a gradual deterioration of his eyesight beginning from his birth in 1899. He recounted this in his own words during a conference, stating that his blindness was not a dramatic shift from one day to the next, but a process that began from his early years and gradually worsened over time. This process culminated in 1955, when he became blind enough to no longer be able to read and write. This marked the end of a significant part of his creative life. However, Borges described this moment as a 'pathetic' one, suggesting a certain level of acceptance and resignation.

The Incident of 1938 and Its Aftermath

Unfortunately, Borges faced a more dramatic loss of vision in 1938. On the night of December 24th, while in a building at Ayacucho Street in Buenos Aires City, an unfortunate incident occurred. He collided with a window, resulting in a head wound. The severity of the wound was compounded by an infection which led to fever and hallucinations. This dramatic convalescence lasted around a week, during which time his brain was severely affected, leading to the fear of irreparable loss of his intellectual and creative faculties.

Remarkably, despite these challenging circumstances, Borges made a recovery and continued to write. He published the seminal short stories, "Pierre Menard, Author of the Quixote" and "The South." These works demonstrated the extraordinary resilience of his mind and his continued passion for literature, even in the face of such a transition.

Hereditary Blindness and Poetic Reflections

Borges's blindness also carried a stronger familial tinge. He had inherited a hereditary illness, a condition that meant he was already losing his sight as his father. From his middle years in his fifties, the progression of his blindness became more apparent. Despite his significant vision loss, he reported experiencing a faint, yellow plane background. However, in his poetry, he often referred to his condition in more metaphoric terms, using the imagery of "night" or "obscurity" to denote his state of mind and blindness.

Legacy and Impact

Borges's journey from sight to blindness is not just a personal account but also a poignant reflection of the human condition. It underscores the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of sensory loss on one's life and work. His literary works, both during and after his blindness, continue to be celebrated for their depth and complexity. Borges remains a cornerstone of Argentine literature and a beloved figure in the global literary community.

Conclusion

The life of Jorge Luis Borges is a testament to the enduring power of the human mind and the resilience of the human spirit. His journey from a person with vision to one who was completely blind is a powerful narrative that encapsulates both the struggles and triumphs of an extraordinary individual. His story and his profound impact on literature make him a timeless figure, revered not just in his native Argentina, but around the world.