In Our Time
Italo Calvino
Dec 19, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Guido Bonsaver, a Professor of Italian Cultural History at Oxford, Jennifer Burns, an expert in Italian Studies from Warwick, and Beatrice Sica from UCL delve into the life and works of Italo Calvino. They explore how Calvino's WWII experiences influenced his shift from neorealism to fantastical writing in masterpieces like 'Invisible Cities.' The conversation highlights his belief that art can enhance life, the impact of his childhood reading, and the evolution of his narrative style, intertwining political engagement with imaginative storytelling.
48:31
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Quick takeaways
- Calvino's transition from realism to fantasy in his writing was influenced by his wartime experiences and desire to address social realities more effectively.
- His innovative narrative techniques, exemplified in Invisible Cities, create profound philosophical reflections on human existence and the relationship between storytelling and reality.
Deep dives
The Early Influences on Italo Calvino
Italo Calvino was born into a family with a strong scientific background, which influenced his early life. His parents were both botanists, and his upbringing in a scientific setting led him to initially pursue agricultural science. However, the outbreak of World War II catalyzed a significant shift in his life, pushing him towards a career in literature and politics. His experiences as a partisan fighter during the war not only contributed to his ideological development but also deeply inspired his later writings.
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