Susani’s “The God of the Gentiles” Unearths Pain and Resilience in the Wake of Tragedy
ROME, ITALY – Acclaimed Italian author Carola Susani returns with “The God of the Gentiles,” a deeply moving novel already generating buzz for its unflinching portrayal of grief, memory, and the enduring power of human connection. Published by least fax, the book follows Piera as she navigates the long shadow cast by a devastating earthquake that claimed the life of her brother, Eugenio, and irrevocably altered the course of her family’s life. This is a breaking news update for readers interested in contemporary Italian literature and explorations of trauma.
A Family Shattered, A Community Reeling
The novel centers on the collapse of a gym during the earthquake, a tragedy that ripples through Piera’s family – her parents, Giuliano and Gina – and the wider community. Susani doesn’t shy away from the raw emotional fallout, depicting the fractured relationships and the struggle to find meaning in the face of unimaginable loss. The narrative skillfully jumps between Piera’s early adolescence and her present-day life caring for her aging mother, creating a poignant tapestry of memory and regret. This isn’t simply a story about an earthquake; it’s about the earthquake within each character.
The Sileno Factory: A Symbol of a Vanishing South
Woven into the personal tragedy is a broader exploration of a South Italy undergoing rapid transformation. The Sileno factory, once a source of regional pride supplying tiles and tiles, looms large in the narrative. It represents a bygone era of industrial strength and familial legacy. Giuliano, Piera’s father, chose to manage the factory over acquiring a car, highlighting the deep commitment passed down through generations. The factory’s connection to the gym’s collapse adds another layer of complexity, suggesting a shared responsibility and a crumbling infrastructure. Susani’s depiction of the factory as a meeting place, then an abandoned space, is a powerful metaphor for a region grappling with its identity and future. This element provides evergreen context about the socio-economic changes in Southern Italy.
Italo Orlando: An Enigmatic Figure at the Heart of the Story
The novel’s central mystery revolves around Italo Orlando, a character described as both otherworldly and deeply human. His yellowish complexion, elusive nature, and quiet presence captivate Piera and become intertwined with her family’s story. Susani deliberately evokes literary allusions, with some comparing Orlando to David Bowie’s “man who fell to earth,” suggesting a figure out of time and place. Orlando’s relationship with Giuliano, forged within the walls of the factory, adds another layer of intrigue. The author’s deliberate use of a name evocative of literary history signals a deeper engagement with the traditions of storytelling.
Susani’s Unique Voice and Literary Style
Carola Susani, previously known for “After Italo Orlando’s first time” (2018) and “Terrapiena” (2020), continues to refine her distinctive writing style in “The God of the Gentiles.” Her use of asyndeto – a progression of clauses without conjunctions – creates a pulsating rhythm that mirrors the characters’ emotional turmoil. Susani’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres, from stories to poetry to children’s books, demonstrates her versatility and artistic range. This novel is a testament to her evolving voice and her commitment to exploring the complexities of the human condition. For readers seeking SEO-optimized content on contemporary authors, Susani is a name to watch.
“The God of the Gentiles” is more than just a novel; it’s an immersive experience that lingers long after the final page is turned. It’s a story about the enduring power of memory, the weight of the past, and the fragile beauty of life in the face of loss. Readers interested in exploring themes of trauma, family, and the changing landscapes of Southern Italy will find this book profoundly rewarding. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further coverage of new literary releases and in-depth author profiles.
