Description
Goodbye to Football
Book Summary
An original and lucid exploration of the world of football, narrated in ninety texts that, like the minutes of a match, combine passion, intelligence, and humor. The author intertwines personal anecdotes with reflections on literature, culture, and society, offering a unique perspective that captivates both the sports fan and the discerning reader. A feast of words and balls where Maradona, Borges, PlayStation, and Mallarmé coexist.
What is it about?
The book is structured like a football match divided into two halves, with ninety short texts corresponding to each minute of play. Through this original structure, the protagonist unfolds his particular vision of the footballing world, peppered with literary, cultural, and philosophical references. Topics covered range from the greatness of legendary players to their fall into oblivion, the controversy over the origin of foosball, the media impact of the "beautiful game," and the need to maintain distance between idols and their followers. The work moves with sharpness between nostalgia, criticism, and the celebration of a phenomenon that the author considers an authentic dramatic genre.
Main themes
- The intersection between football and high culture, with references to Borges, Bioy Casares, and Mallarmé.
- The mythologizing and subsequent decline of sports heroes.
- The media and social impact of contemporary football.
- Personal and collective memory linked to players, teams, and iconic moments.
- Football as a spectacle, ritual, and dramatic genre.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at readers passionate about football who are looking for a deeper, more literary reflection on the sport, as well as literature lovers interested in an original and cultured look at a popular phenomenon. It will also be attractive to those who enjoy intelligent prose, subtle humor, and unexpected connections between seemingly disparate disciplines.
What this book offers
- A novel perspective that merges football passion with literary erudition.
- An original narrative structure that imitates the rhythm and excitement of a match.
- Sharp and amusing reflections on sports culture and its myths.
- A polished and accessible writing style that invites rereading.
Technical Specifications
- Author: Magrelli, Valerio
- Publisher: Xordica
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FICTION, SPORTS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION
- Collection: CARRACHINAS
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: October 2013
- Number of pages: 128
- Weight: 187 g
Editorial Review
Goodbye to Football is a unique proposal that succeeds in bridging two often distant worlds: that of quality literature and that of popular culture. Its author demonstrates a profound knowledge of both sport and letters, offering a text that, without losing rigor, remains enjoyable and surprising. The work is distinguished by its ability to make the reader reflect while being entertained, making it a highly recommended read for those looking for something more than a standard sports chronicle.