Venice: A Literary Guide for Travellers

(Paperback)

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Description

Memory's images, once they are fixed in words, are erased, Marco Polo said. Perhaps I am afraid of losing Venice all at once, if I speak of it, or perhaps, speaking of other cities, I have already lost it, little by little. Italo Calvino, Invisible Cities Venice, La Serenissima, is one of the most breathtaking cities in the world. A floating labyrinth; the world's greatest museum, frozen in time; a cultural jewel, slowly sinking into the lagoon from which it rose; tourist-trap, irresistible muse. From its earliest beginnings in the 7th century, Venice has been a magnetic centre of trade and culture, wealth and power and has acted as a crossroads for an array of religious pilgrims and refugees, diplomats, crusading armies and merchants. Later, its fabled beauty and reputation as a haven for freedom of expression seduced some of the most celebrated figures in history: artists such as Durer, Bellini and Turner; writers Dickens, Byron, Kafka, Poe, Rousseau, Thomas Mann, Ruskin and Ezra Pound and composers Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Verdi and Stravinsky. In this captivating guide to literary Venice, the author uncovers the city's myriad secrets, revealing how every floating palace, gilded church and bustling square is imbued with the lives and creations of those who were inspired by the city, which still echoes with their voices.

Reviews

But what I find chiefly interesting about this book are the themes of love and death that continuously emerge. -- Roger Lewis * The Times *
Theres so much more in this compact but hugely informative little volume, but youll have to read it for yourself to find out. Its definitely for anyone whos planning a trip to the city anytime soon or for anyone who already knows Venice but would like to get better acquainted. * Shiny New Books *
This is a richly satisfying book for any of Venices legion of enthusiasts and admirers. * About My Generation *

Author Bio

Born in Northern France, Marie-Jos Gransard studied English at the Sorbonne in Paris and her career has been in language and culture. She teaches a course, 'Venice in Literature', in Cannaregio and conducts tours of Venice. She has worked with Hilary Spurling on her biography of Matisse and with Anthony Holden for his biography of Lorenzo da Ponte. She divides her time between Venice and London where she is presently researching the literary legacy of visitors to the city.