"Por último, el cuervo" ("The Castle of Crossed Destinies" in English) is an enchanting and unconventional novel written by the talented Italo Calvino. Set in a medieval world, Calvino skillfully intertwines multiple stories and characters, creating a distinctive narrative structure that captivates readers.
The novel revolves around a group of travelers who find themselves in a magical castle where they are unable to communicate verbally. Instead, they utilize tarot cards to convey their stories. Calvino's storytelling technique is mesmerizing as he uses the tarot cards as a visual metaphor for the characters' journeys and destinies. Each card represents a different story, allowing the tales to unfold in a captivating manner.
Calvino's prose is vivid and poetic, transporting readers to a realm where reality and fiction merge. His descriptive writing creates a sensory experience that immerses readers in the mystical atmosphere of the narrative.
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At its core, the novel explores profound themes such as destiny, storytelling, and the intricate relationship between language and meaning. By challenging the traditional boundaries of narrative and language, Calvino constructs a story that relies on visuals rather than words. This unconventional format showcases the power of storytelling to shape our perceptions and understanding of the world.
One of the strengths of Calvino's writing is his ability to create suspense and mystery throughout the novel. As the travelers reveal their stories through the laying down of the tarot cards, readers are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next revelation. This element of intrigue adds depth and engagement to the narrative, making "Por último, el cuervo" a thought-provoking and compelling read.
What are readers saying?
"Italo Calvino's novel 'Por último, el cuervo' has received a mixed reception from readers. Some have been captivated by its imaginative and captivating qualities, while others have been disappointed by its complexity and lack of coherence.
Many readers have praised Calvino's writing style, describing it as poetic and mesmerizing. They find his use of language to be beautiful and lyrical, immersing them in the story. The unique structure of the book, with its interweaving narratives and storytelling techniques, has also been appreciated by some reviewers for adding depth and complexity to the reading experience.
On the other hand, some readers have found the book confusing and difficult to follow. They feel that Calvino's elaborate writing style obscures the plot and makes it hard to connect with the characters. The lack of clarity and coherence in the narrative has frustrated some reviewers, making it challenging for them to fully engage with the story.
There are those who have found thought-provoking themes and philosophical undertones in the book. They appreciate how Calvino explores concepts such as identity, reality, and the nature of storytelling. For these readers, the book offers intellectual stimulation and enjoyable layers of meaning.
However, there are also readers who feel that the philosophical elements in the book are too abstract and obscure. They find it challenging to grasp the underlying concepts, which hinders their enjoyment of the story. These reviewers would prefer a more straightforward narrative without the heavy philosophical musings.
PorUltimoElCuervo BookRecommendation SpanishLit