Hermit in Paris
(Author) Italo CalvinoWith a Preface by Esther Calvino 'These pages are distinguished by a sly philosophic humour . . . a sensuous immediacy of detail and a droll wit' Guardian In this elegant collection of essays, one of modern literature's most enchanting masters reminisces about Italy's antifascist resistance and the whirl of ideas that blossomed in the post-war era. In America, Calvino follows Nixon's election hopes while marvelling at colour television and American cars, but describes with loathing his first experience of mass racism, when he is lucky enough to meet Martin Luther King in Alabama. He also writes brilliant short pieces on his Italian dialect, the final day of the Second World War, and the rich joys of living in Paris. A stylish assortment of memoir and wit, Hermit in Paris includes the very finest of Calvino's superb work. 'Beautifully written . . . the work of an extraordinary mind, one that is worth exploring from every angle' Independent on Sunday
Italo Calvino
Italo Calvino (1923-1985) was an Italian writer known for his experimental and imaginative works that blurred the lines between fantasy and reality. His most notable works include "Invisible Cities," "If on a winter's night a traveler," and "Cosmicomics." Calvino's writing style was characterized by its playful and innovative approach to storytelling, often incorporating elements of metafiction and magical realism. He is considered a key figure in the literary genre of postmodernism, influencing authors such as Umberto Eco and Salman Rushdie. "Invisible Cities" is widely regarded as his most famous work, exploring themes of memory, imagination, and the nature of storytelling. Calvino's contributions to literature have cemented his legacy as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.