About
Roberto Bolaño was a celebrated Chilean novelist, short-story writer, poet, and essayist. He is best known for his novels *The Savage Detectives*, which won the Rómulo Gallegos Prize, and *2666*, which was posthumously awarded the National Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction. Bolaño's works are characterized by their experimental style, complex narratives, and exploration of themes such as exile, memory, and the search for meaning. His writing has gained widespread recognition and critical acclaim.
Career Timeline
Early Poetry and Activism
Begins writing poetry and participating in political activism during his youth.
Exile during Pinochet Regime
Goes into exile during the Pinochet regime, moving to Mexico and later Spain.
"Estrella distante" Published
Publishes "Estrella distante" (Distant Star), his first novel.
"The Savage Detectives" Success
Releases "The Savage Detectives", earning international recognition and critical acclaim, his breakthrough work.
Rómulo Gallegos Prize
Wins Rómulo Gallegos Prize for "The Savage Detectives", increasing fame.
Bolaño's Death
Roberto Bolaño dies, leaving behind a significant body of work including the posthumously published novel "2666".
Lasting Literary Influence
His novels continue to be celebrated and studied, solidifying his legacy as one of the most important Latin American writers.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026