The Man Who Sold His Shadow

"The Man Who Sold His Shadow" is a short story by Chilean writer Jorge Luis Borges. It explores themes of identity, morality, and the nature of existence through a surreal narrative. The story follows a man who, in a mysterious transaction, sells his shadow—an act that symbolizes giving up part of himself or his essence. As a result, he suffers strange consequences, questioning what it means to be whole. Borges uses this fantastical premise to examine how our identities are tied to intangible aspects like our presence and consciousness, prompting reflection on the human condition and the intangible elements that define us.