A novel written in the late 1920s. The story begins with Giuseppe de Nicola, a retired primary school teacher, who embarks on a journey after teaching for forty years. Through Giuseppe's reflections on his past and his decision to travel, the narrative hints at themes of nostalgia, lost connections, and the stark contrast between dreams and reality. At the start of the novel, Giuseppe de Nicola prepares for his long-desired journey, spurred by memories of his adopted son and a yearning for connection with a family that has moved away. As he boards a train, the excitement of new experiences is tempered by feelings of loneliness and uncertainty about the future. Upon arrival at a small station without a welcoming party, he faces the overwhelming emptiness of his surroundings, deepening his sense of isolation. However, he soon meets his granddaughter Ola, sparking a bond that stirs his heart and gives promise to the new chapter of his life. This opening segment sets the stage for an exploration of familial relationships and the complexities of human emotion as Giuseppe navigates his new reality.
