Italo Calvino: Romancier Et Conteur : Book Review

"Italo Calvino" by Jean-Paul Manganaro provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the life and works of the celebrated Italian writer, Italo Calvino. Manganaro delves deeply into Calvino's literary journey, offering a thorough exploration of his influences, recurring themes, and unique writing style. This book offers a fascinating look into Calvino's innovative approach to storytelling, as well as his relentless pursuit of experimental literature.

The book begins by tracing Calvino's early life and formative years as a writer. Manganaro discusses the impact of Calvino's involvement with the Italian Communist Party on his worldview, as well as the influence of his experiences in World War II. Furthermore, the author sheds light on Calvino's relationship with fellow writers and intellectuals, providing valuable insights into his creative process and the development of his literary ideas.

One of the highlights of this book is its meticulous examination of Calvino's major works. Manganaro thoroughly dissects the themes, symbolism, and narrative techniques employed by Calvino in novels such as "Invisible Cities" and "If on a winter's night a traveler." The author offers a fresh perspective on Calvino's storytelling, emphasizing his use of metafiction, allegory, and imaginative language.

Furthermore, Manganaro delves into the critical reception of Calvino's works, both during his lifetime and after his passing. He explores the influence of literary movements like postmodernism on Calvino's writing, as well as the impact of his works on the broader literary landscape. Additionally, the book delves into the controversies surrounding Calvino's political beliefs and his role as a prominent public intellectual in Italy.

In conclusion, "Italo Calvino" is a must-read for admirers of Calvino's works and those interested in understanding the lasting literary legacy of one of Italy's greatest writers. Manganaro's extensive analysis and thoughtful exploration of Calvino's life and works make this book an invaluable resource for anyone studying or appreciating Calvino's contributions to literature.

What are readers saying?

"Italo Calvino" by Jean-Paul Manganaro is a critically acclaimed book that delves into the life and works of the renowned Italian writer Italo Calvino. Opinions about the book among readers vary.

Many readers appreciate Manganaro's thorough analysis of Calvino's literary creations, as well as his ability to connect them to the author's personal experiences and the socio-political climate of Italy. They find the book to be an enlightening exploration of Calvino's career as a writer, providing a comprehensive understanding of his works.

However, some readers express disappointment with the book, mentioning that it is overly academic and challenging to follow. They feel that Manganaro's writing style is heavy-handed and lacks accessibility for casual readers.

Some readers find value in Manganaro's attention to detail and his ability to delve deeply into Calvino's works, uncovering their underlying themes and meanings. They believe that his analysis offers insightful and thought-provoking perspectives, shedding new light on Calvino's writing.

On the other hand, some readers argue that Manganaro's analysis is overly subjective, imposing his own interpretations on Calvino's works. They feel that the book does not leave enough room for readers to form their own opinions and interpretations.

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