Perfect Days

The debut novel by Jacobo Bergareche, a well-known Spanish writer, poet, and screenwriter, titled “Perfect Days,” was recognized as one of the best Spanish books of 2021. The work has been translated into eight languages and received acclaim from the jury of the European Union Prize for Literature.

At the center is the story of the relationship between William Faulkner and Meta Carpenter, who maintained contact for more than 30 years. During that time, the writer sent his beloved affectionate letters and amusing illustrations—some of which were included in the book.

This philosophical work with humorous elements explores themes of passion, loyalty, midlife crisis, and the complexity of human relationships—sure to attract fans of contemporary intellectual literature.

The main character, a journalist named Luis, is disillusioned with his career and family life and ends up at a conference in Austin, Texas. There he meets a woman who changes his perception of life. Luis always sought “perfect days”—moments of sharp feeling and freedom. His model was the letters of William Faulkner found in an Austin archive, addressed to Meta Carpenter. But are happiness and love eternal? How can you protect them from routine? Bergareche considers these questions timeless, offering no clear answers—yet sharing his personal experience that can help readers.

Born in 1976, Jacobo Bergareche became a known Spanish writer and screenwriter. His first novel, “Perfect Days,” received positive reviews from critics and was recommended for reading, with a special mention from the jury of the European Literature Prize.