Novelle d'ambo i sessi

by Alfredo Panzini

"Novelle d'ambo i sessi" by Alfredo Panzini is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The work explores themes of life, death, and human relationships, blending elements of humor, philosophy, and social commentary. Through various narratives, Panzini delves into the complexities of both male and female perspectives, reflecting on the societal roles and experiences of his characters. The opening of the collection introduces us to Professor Sigismondo Fulai, a well-educated man facing peculiar troubles caused by a plague of mice in his library. As he grapples with the unwelcome invasion, Fulai's annoyance escalates to a series of humorous and existential dilemmas, particularly when he fears he might have contracted rabies from an encounter with one of the rodents. The narrative skillfully intertwines Fulai's intellectual pretensions and his fears about mortality, creating a tension between his rational thought and irrational fears, effectively setting the tone for the stories that follow.