Two of the most shocking books about World War II were written by the Italian fascist, litterateur and dandy, Curzio Malaparte. His “novels”, Kaputt and The Skin have been canonized through incorporation into the wonderful series of New York Review Classics.
One of your best articles. I only knew about Malaparte’s villa in Capri. This was an eye opener. As a coincidence, a couple of nights ago I started reading Naples’44 (very good!). Now I’m off to my bookshelf to find that art book about Balla, Boccione and Severini.
Great post. Why is there no great author writing about the Russo-Ukrainian conflict - or about any of eight prior Russo-Ukrainian conflicts? I think it is because there is not a cultural conflict. It is Slav versus Slav and the cultures are almost identical.
One of your best articles. I only knew about Malaparte’s villa in Capri. This was an eye opener. As a coincidence, a couple of nights ago I started reading Naples’44 (very good!). Now I’m off to my bookshelf to find that art book about Balla, Boccione and Severini.
Thanks, Adam. Three more books I have to read!
Great stuff!
I have read Naples '44 but not Skin (Malaparte); I am not sure I can face up to it now!
Do you recommend Tony Judt's books?
Great post. Why is there no great author writing about the Russo-Ukrainian conflict - or about any of eight prior Russo-Ukrainian conflicts? I think it is because there is not a cultural conflict. It is Slav versus Slav and the cultures are almost identical.