Description
Book Synopsis: The first short story collection by the Pulitzer Prize–winning author and master of the form since her number one New York Times best seller Unaccustomed Earth • Rome—metropolis and monument, suspended between past and future, multi-faceted and metaphysical—is the protagonist, not the setting, of these nine stories
“A delectable, sun-washed treat . . . the stories have the beating heart of the city itself, a place of magnificent decay and vibrant, varied life.” —Vogue
In “The Boundary,” one family vacations in the Roman countryside, though we see their lives through the eyes of the caretaker’s daughter, who nurses a wound from her family’s immigrant past. In “P’s Parties,” a Roman couple, now empty nesters, finds comfort and community with foreigners at their friend’s yearly birthday gathering—until the husband crosses a line.
And in “The Steps,” on a public staircase that connects two neighborhoods and the residents who climb up and down it, we see Italy’s capital in all of its social and cultural variegations, filled with the tensions of a changing city: visibility and invisibility, random acts of aggression, the challenge of straddling worlds and cultures, and the meaning of home.
These are splendid, searching stories, written in Jhumpa Lahiri’s adopted language of Italian and seamlessly translated by the author and by Knopf editor Todd Portnowitz. Stories steeped in the moods of Italian master Alberto Moravia and guided, in the concluding tale, by the ineluctable ghost of Dante Alighieri, whose words lead the protagonist toward a new way of life.
Details
In the captivating short story collection "Roman Stories," Jhumpa Lahiri takes us on a mesmerizing journey through the enchanting city of Rome. As the protagonist of these nine stories, Rome becomes a character itself, with its rich history and ethereal presence. Lahiri, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, effortlessly transports readers into the heart of the city, where past and future intertwine, and its atmosphere permeates every page.
One of the standout stories, "The Boundary," explores the lives of a family vacationing in the Roman countryside. Through the eyes of the caretaker's daughter, Lahiri delves into the complexities of immigrant experiences and the lingering wounds carried within families. This poignant tale will leave you deeply moved, reflecting on the power of heritage and the significance of our roots.
"P's Parties" takes us on an intimate journey of a Roman couple entering the empty-nester phase of their lives. Seeking solace and connection, they find refuge in their annual birthday celebration with foreigners. However, as the story unfolds, Lahiri skillfully navigates delicate lines and unveils the consequences of crossing boundaries. This thought-provoking tale will make you question the meaning of friendship, loyalty, and the choices we make.
Perhaps one of the most captivating stories in the collection, "The Steps," captures the essence of Rome's social and cultural diversity. Set on a public staircase that serves as a bridge between two neighborhoods, Lahiri presents a mosaic of the city's inhabitants and their struggles. The steps become a symbol of the challenges faced by those straddling worlds and cultures, as well as a reflection of the evolving nature of Italy's capital.
Written in Lahiri's adopted language of Italian, these stories emanate the spirit of Italian master Alberto Moravia, while being masterfully translated by the author and Knopf editor Todd Portnowitz. The final tale, influenced by the undeniable presence of Dante Alighieri, guides the protagonist towards a new way of life, leaving readers with a sense of hope and transformation.
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the soul-stirring and beautifully crafted world of "Roman Stories." Experience Rome like never before through the eyes of Jhumpa Lahiri and discover the vibrancy and complexity of this timeless city. Grab your copy today and let Lahiri's unparalleled storytelling transport you to the heart of Rome.
Explore "Roman Stories" now and delve into the captivating narratives that will transport you to the magical city of Rome!
Literary - Where the Crawdads Sing
