Farewell Love! A Novel

by Matilde Serao

"Farewell Love!" by Matilde Serao is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around Anna Acquaviva, a young woman ensnared in a passionate love affair with Giustino Morelli, against the backdrop of societal constraints imposed by her family and her guardian, Cesare Dias. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the tumultuous emotions that accompany youthful desires and societal expectations. At the start of the story, we meet Anna as she lies awake in her bed, suffering from the intensity of her feelings towards Giustino, whom she secretly meets. The opening chapters illustrate her turmoil as she grapples with her desire to escape her stifling life, particularly the authority of Cesare Dias, her guardian, who stands as an obstacle to her love. The tension escalates as Anna resolves to elope with Giustino, culminating in a poignant reflection on the sacrifices of love and the ensuing emotional fallout from her decisions. The complexity of their relationship unfolds, revealing Anna's vulnerability and the challenging dynamics that threaten her happiness.