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Clash of Civilisations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio

A satirical tale of immigrants in a Roman building

Amara Lakhous author Ann Goldstein translator

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Europa Editions (UK) Ltd

Published:16th Jun '22

Should be back in stock very soon

Clash of Civilisations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio cover

This novel explores the immigrant experience in Rome through the fragmented narratives of tenants, revealing shared struggles and cultural clashes in Clash of Civilisations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio.

In Clash of Civilisations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio, the narrative unfolds within a building in Rome, where a diverse group of immigrant tenants share their fragmented accounts of a murder. The story is woven through the distinct voices of each character, offering a glimpse into their lives and the complexities of their experiences. As they take turns recounting their stories, the reader is drawn into the rich tapestry of their struggles and triumphs, highlighting the challenges faced by immigrants in a bustling city.

The award-winning satire by Amara Lakhous delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the often harsh realities of life on the margins of society. Each character's testimony reveals the nuances of their daily lives, marked by misunderstandings, cultural clashes, and the pervasive fears that accompany their existence in a foreign land. The author skillfully captures the essence of modern, polyglot Rome, making the city itself a character that influences and shapes the lives of its inhabitants.

Ultimately, Clash of Civilisations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio resonates with anyone who has navigated the complexities of migration and adaptation, regardless of their geographical location. It is a poignant reminder of the shared human experience that transcends borders, inviting readers to reflect on their own perceptions of identity and community.

"The author’s real subject is the heave and crush of modern, polyglot Rome, and he renders the jabs of everyday speech with such precision that the novel feels exclaimed rather than written." * The New Yorker *
"An Italian noir-comedy-satire, written by an Algerian, that effectively breaks rules and has a good time doing it." * Shelf Awareness *
"This short but nearly flawless novel offers an intriguing and satisfying blend of crime and literary fiction." * Booklist *

ISBN: 9781787703841

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: unknown

144 pages