Le Ore Inutili: Novelle

A collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The text explores various themes of love, desire, and personal conflict through nuanced character interactions, primarily set in Italy. The characters grapple with emotional turmoil and the complexities of relationships, often reflecting the societal norms of their time. The opening of the collection presents an intense conversation between two main characters, Dino Altavilla and Ottavia Dimauro. As they discuss a significant revelation that Dino seems hesitant to share, Ottavia's probing questions reveal her determination to understand the truth. The dialogue is rich with tension as Dino ultimately admits he is set to marry someone else, leading to an emotional upheaval for Ottavia. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of themes such as possessiveness, love, and the pain of unfulfilled desires, highlighting the fragility of human connections.