A General Theory of Oblivion (Portuguese: Teoria Geral do Esquecimento) is a 2012 novel by Angolan author José Eduardo Agualusa.

She attempts to cut herself off from the external world for three decades until she meets a young boy who informs her of the radical changes which have occurred in the country in the intervening years.

In the midst of all the violence and chaos caused by the anti-colonial movement's clashes with Portuguese authorities, she decides to isolate herself from society by bricking herself into her penthouse apartment.

[12] Critics praised Agualusa for his subject matter, stating that he was responsible for opening up "the world of Portuguese-speaking Africa to the English-speaking community.

"[13] He attracted further critical praise for the manner in which he condensed a cryptic and complicated conflict into a "succinctly summarised and easily understandable" package.

[17] Agualusa stated that he intended to use part of the reward to "realise a life-long dream" and construct a public library on the Island of Mozambique, his adopted home.