I remember very vividly sitting on a beach reading this and just as the novel finishes, the incredible simile of Bendicò’s pelt thrown from a high window and, in unfurling through the air, resembling again if just for a moment the shape and vivacity it had in life. I sat staring at the waves for a long, long while after that lol
note to self: if you’re going to write one novel to get published posthumously after a lifetime of uncertainty and disappointment, make it an incredible banger like this one!
I have a strong opinion about the movies. First, Burt Lancaster, though initially ridiculed by the Italians, is superb and moving.
The sequence I recommend, to shape the impact, is:
1) The English version made for America, for a simpler narrative line.
2) The Italian version with subtitles, a richer, darker, and somewhat subtler story.
3) Then read the novel (I am limited to the fine translation) which I remember as slightly less relentlessly lubricious, and richer with dear humanity. Such as a humane generous gesture by a lesser character.
Don't read up on the making of the film(s) until this point.
I remember very vividly sitting on a beach reading this and just as the novel finishes, the incredible simile of Bendicò’s pelt thrown from a high window and, in unfurling through the air, resembling again if just for a moment the shape and vivacity it had in life. I sat staring at the waves for a long, long while after that lol
note to self: if you’re going to write one novel to get published posthumously after a lifetime of uncertainty and disappointment, make it an incredible banger like this one!
Can just imagine writing this banger in the twilight of your life...
Have you seen the movie and if so do you recommend?
I haven't seen...
I have a strong opinion about the movies. First, Burt Lancaster, though initially ridiculed by the Italians, is superb and moving.
The sequence I recommend, to shape the impact, is:
1) The English version made for America, for a simpler narrative line.
2) The Italian version with subtitles, a richer, darker, and somewhat subtler story.
3) Then read the novel (I am limited to the fine translation) which I remember as slightly less relentlessly lubricious, and richer with dear humanity. Such as a humane generous gesture by a lesser character.
Don't read up on the making of the film(s) until this point.
Thanks!