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Buckle up for a longer one ~~ The book the iconic Visconti film of the same title is based on, the leopard is a luxurious multigenerational magnum opus that explores the demise of an aristocracy and a noble family in power at the time, the Sicilian family of Don Fabrizio, The Leopard. This book is the exact opposite of those vacation reads I recโd above. Itโs some effort to read, but worth it ~ an exercise in extravagance, lush and lavish environments, theatrical parties, and mouth matering feasts. Don Fabrizio is a decadent prince who has become numb to his opulent lifestyle, bringing the jesuit priest with him everywhere to make amends with God as he continues to commit cardinal sins. He carries this numbness beyond his lifestyle, to how he handles the signs of the falling aristocracy - failing to act but rather observing as the world changes around him. His nephew, Tancredi, is his foil, willing the changes in his world that Don Fabrizio dreads. Their relationship, as well as the rest of the families, feels so full and fleshed out, I truly understand and relate to each of their motives. The Leopard is a true work of art.
Sep 1, 2022
