Trilussa, Aesop of Rome: Roman, poet, satirist, fabulist, and the man behind the mask

Trilussa was a poet and fabulist who documented Roman and Italian society in poems and fables, from Italy's birth in the late nineteenth century to its rebirth after the Second World War. In 1950, the nascent Republic acknowledged his importance and values by making him Senator for Life. He enjoyed this accolade for only three weeks before he died on 21 December 1950. This bilingual book aims to prove his appeal is universal and he is worthy to be crowned Aesop of Rome.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2021
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

Trilussa, a witness to history, emerged as a victor through his art. Spanning from Italy's late nineteenth-century birth to its post-World War rebirth, he vividly documented Roman and Italian society through poems and fables. In 1950, the nascent Republic recognized Trilussa's immense significance and values by appointing him Senator for Life. However, his tenure was brief, as he passed away on December 21, 1950, the same year as renowned fabulist George Orwell.

Trilussa's enduring popularity in Italy remains undiminished. Fans continue to flock to YouTube, where they relish reciting his fables, wrapped in a grain of truth. This bilingual book seeks to establish his universal appeal, making him deserving of the title "Aesop of Rome."

Leaving school at sixteen, without a formal qualification, Trilussa declared his aspiration to become a poet to his mother. He would surpass the mere label of a poet. Under the pen name Trilussa, he wielded his pen with remarkable insight, humor, love, cutting wit, and cunning, penning his words during both prosperous and challenging times. His appeal transcended classes, encompassing saints and sinners, even reaching the realm of a dictator whom Trilussa dared to challenge through fables and satires. Within hours of Trilussa's passing, Senator Bergamini declared in the Senate that Trilussa possessed an aura of popularity that would have been imprudent to harm or confront.

In his unique way, Trilussa triumphed, while the dictator and fascism faced defeat. His legacy as a poet and fabulist continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of art to shape history and challenge societal norms.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800463752