The Shape of Water, by Andrea Camilleri

 

"The Shape of Water" by Andrea Camilleri is a captivating crime novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey to Vigàta, a fictional town in Sicily. The story revolves around Inspector Montalbano, a seasoned detective known for his wit and keen investigative skills. 

Camilleri's book was translated from Sicilian by Stephen Sartarelli in a simple and straightforward writing style that nonetheless conveys the sense of place and the feel of the characters effectively. In the story, Camilleri  weaves together a complex plot filled with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their unique quirks and motivations. For instance, Augello, Montalbano’s deputy is a compulsive womaniser, while the desk sergeant Catarella, who obtained his job through connections, is portrayed as an endearing simpleton.

One of the highlights of the book is the vivid and immersive descriptions of Sicilian culture and landscapes. Camilleri brings Vigàta to life, painting a picture of a vibrant and colourful region that feels authentic and enchanting, which was ultimately inspired by his hometown of Porto Empedocle. The dialogue is witty and engaging, adding depth to the characters and enhancing the overall reading experience.

"The Shape of Water" is not just a crime novel but also a commentary on society and human nature. Camilleri explores themes of corruption, power, and the complexity of relationships, providing readers with plenty of food for thought. This is the hallmark of the Italian noire genre, of whom Camilleri is an important exponent. 

"The Shape of Water" is a captivating and enjoyable read. Andrea Camilleri's skilful storytelling, coupled with his insightful observations, make this book a must-read for crime fiction lovers and anyone interested in Sicilian culture. 

Book review: A Farewell to Arms

Ernest Hemingway

First published 1929 (October issue of Scriber’s Magazine)

This summer, I revisited Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms. Although the novel is set during WWI in Italy, in its essence, it is a love story rather than a war story. Not that it is a romance novel. Far from it! Hemingway uses no flowery language or long-winded descriptions. Instead, he uses his characteristic terse staccato sentences; an almost journalistic style of writing that, though at times feels cold, seems to reflect the cold vagaries of chance that determine the fortunes of man. Reading this novel, you get a clear feeling that the divide between life and death is indeed very subtle.

The protagonist, Lieutenant Frederic Henry, is a young American who has joined the Italian ambulance corps as a volunteer. He is wounded by an exploding shell and is moved to an American hospital in Milan. While convalescing, he falls in love with a British nurse, Catherine Barkley, and after a brief love affair gets her pregnant. Catherine is very accommodating to her lover – today’s emancipated women would think of her as too servile, but obviously, in the eyes of the women of the 1920s and 30s, she would have appeared very forward or downright wanton.  Hemingway’s casual treatment of premarital sex led to the novel being banned in some parts of the United States. This might surprise the modern reader who is not aware of the context during which it was written.

It was also banned in Italy. Hemingway’s depiction of the disastrous Italian retreat during the Battle of Caporetto seemed to offend fascist ‘patriots.’ Yet, although the ineptness of Italian high command is implied, I believe that Hemingway really wanted to illustrate the futility of war; the pointless decisions taken by men in power that would mean life or death for the soldier in the field. In such chaos, being in the arms of his beloved Catherine provided the only measure of normality to Lieutenant Henry. It must also be said that there was bad blood between Hemingway and Mussolini. Hemingway interviewed the Italian dictator in 1923 while working for the Toronto Daily Star. Hemingway’s words about Mussolini were not flattering: “Mussolini is the biggest bluff in Europe. If Mussolini would have me taken out and shot tomorrow morning, I would still regard him as a bluff.”

A Farewell to Arms is infused with strong autobiographical elements. Hemingway actually served in the ambulance corps in Italy during WWI and also fell in love with a nurse who, however, did not return his love. Although the novel was written from a masculine point of view, it highlights both the cruel aspects as well as the softer side of masculinity. In the novel, the feminine element seems to bring out the better side of manhood.

The theme of death and the fragility of life are underlying themes in Hemingway’s novel. A Farewell to Arms is a pragmatic reminder of the vagaries of life and death. Hemingway implies that things do not happen because of a reason in the universe, and whether you’re directly in the line of fire is just a matter of luck... or lack of it.

Have you read A Farewell to Arms? If yes, what do you think of my review? Are there things you agree or disagree with? If you have not read it, does this review entice you to try reading it? I’d be happy to read the comments you post. And if you are interested in reading more reviews and articles, hit the subscribe button and get future posts directly into your inbox.