The Desire of Life

"The Desire of Life" by Matilde Serao is a story set in the late 1800s, amidst the stunning Engadine mountains, which follows characters on their journey to discover the true essence of life and relationships within the confines of complicated love and societal norms. Two companions, Don Vittorio Lante and Lucio Sabini, are followed as they search for purpose, and their relationship is a testament to their individual battles with freedom, love, and societal pressures. The novel commences with Don Vittorio Lante and Lucio Sabini as they travel via carriage through the mesmerizing Alps’ terrain, speaking on their longings, the topic of love, and the obligations that come with their social positions. Lucio voices his dissatisfaction with his temporary romances, while Don Vittorio deals with obligations to his family and a sense of duty to his position; the descriptions of the landscape are interwoven with their discussions to create a mood of self-examination and a craving for change as the characters come to terms with their inner conflict and seemingly beautiful existence.