Literary works explore Italian history and culture

Recent literary works explore various facets of Italian history and culture. A new historical novel focuses on the life of cycling legend Gino Bartali during the occupation of Italy. The story depicts Bartali using his fame as a cover for the resistance, navigating the moral complexities and existential doubts of wartime while acting as a secret courier.

Additionally, a collection titled ‘Italiaanse dromen’ gathers 123 short texts by literary journalist Wim Noordhoek. These logs, written between 1976 and 2010, capture his poetic observations of Italy, ranging from landscapes and films to literary reflections, reflecting his long-standing engagement with the country through his work for the VPRO.