This collection of short stories is translated from the Italian by Professor Rafael Mantellini and has an introduction by Joseph Hergesheimer. This is an appreciative comparison between our Anglo-Saxon short story and that of the great Italian. Mr Hergesheimer calls attention to the intense realism of D’Annunzio, which knows no reservations and no shrinking. The tales are: The hero; The countess of Amalfi; The return of Turlendana; Turlendana drunk; The gold pieces; Sorcery; The idolaters; Mungia; The downfall of Candia; The death of the duke of Ofena; The war of the bridge; The virgin Anna.
“Here writing is done with the big stick. They are tales of the noisier passions, executed with meticulous consideration for the formidable detail, since D’Annunzio writes with all the heat and strength of pulse that is supposed to belong to the southern temperament. The translation, with the possible exception of parts of the conversation, is very smoothly done.”
+ Dial 68:804 Je ’20 120w
“It takes, as Joseph Hergesheimer points out in his exceedingly interesting preface, a rather carefully prepared attitude of mind to thoroly enjoy them. They are written with art and skill but with a lack of reticence in description which is likely to disturb the Anglo-Saxon. If you enjoy Russian short stories you will probably enjoy these.”
+ Ind 104:70 O 9 ’20 160w
“The stories are of course arresting and at times brilliant. D’Annunzio’s powerful gifts are beyond question today.” L. L.
+ − Nation 110:sup488 Ap 10 ’20 240w
Reviewed by Rebecca West
New Repub 23:156 Je 30 ’20 500w