The Child of Pleasure   By: Gabriele D'Annunzio (1863-1938)

The Child of Pleasure by Gabriele D'Annunzio is a complex and thought-provoking novel that delves into the depths of human desire and the pursuit of pleasure. Set in late 19th century Italy, the story follows the life of Andrea Sperelli, a young and aristocratic man whose sole purpose is to indulge in all the pleasures that life has to offer.

D'Annunzio's writing is remarkably evocative, painting vivid and decadent descriptions of the opulent lifestyles of the Italian elite. Through his lyrical prose, he effortlessly transports readers into a captivating world of beauty, art, and excess. From sumptuous banquets to extravagant soirées, every scene is meticulously crafted, immersing the reader in a sensory experience of indulgence and pleasure.

At the heart of the novel lies the protagonist, Andrea Sperelli, a fascinating character deeply consumed by his own insatiable desires. As Andrea navigates through a series of romantic relationships and encounters, he becomes a complex study of human nature, unafraid to exploit others for his own pleasure, often leaving a trail of broken hearts in his wake.

What sets this novel apart is D'Annunzio's exploration of the darker sides of pleasure and its consequences. As the story progresses, the veneer of glamour and excess begins to crack, revealing the emptiness and hollowness that lie beneath. Through Andrea's self-destructive behavior and disillusionment, D'Annunzio invites readers to reflect on the nature of pleasure and its potential to ultimately lead to despair.

Despite the beauty of its prose and the depth of its themes, The Child of Pleasure may not be to everyone's taste. The narrative moves at its own languid pace, immersing readers in a slower and more introspective reading experience. Some may find the excessive attention to detail overwhelming or tiresome, but for those who appreciate rich and nuanced storytelling, this novel offers a rewarding journey into the complexities of human desire.

In conclusion, The Child of Pleasure is a captivating and introspective novel that explores the allure and consequences of indulging in hedonistic pleasures. D'Annunzio's lush and poetic prose bring the story to life, immersing readers in a world of decadence and excess. While the novel may not be for everyone, those who appreciate literary depth and philosophical reflections on the pursuit of pleasure will find much to ponder within its pages.

First Page:

It is characteristic of the atmosphere of legend in which Gabriele d'Annunzio has lived that even the authenticity of his name has been disputed. It was said that his real name was Gaetano Rapagnetta, and the curious will find amongst the Letters of James Huneker the boast that he was the first person to reveal to America the fact that d'Annunzio's name was "Rapagnetto" a purely personal contribution to the legend. Yet, the plain fact, as proven by his birth certificate, is that the author of "The Child of Pleasure" was born at Pescara, on the 12th of March, 1863, the son of Francesco Paolo d'Annunzio and Luisa de Benedictis... Continue reading book >>