Vittorio Imbriani
Fame usurpate
"Fame Usurpate" by Vittorio Imbriani is a collection of critical studies written in the late 19th century. The work consists of four main essays that delve into the themes of literature, reputation, and artistic integrity, reflecting Imbriani's disdain for superficiality in poetry and his critique of contemporaneous literary figures. The title suggests a focus on the concept of borrowed fame and the implications of hollow reputations. The opening of "Fame Usurpate" introduces the author’s motivations for republishing his critical studies, marked by a resolute defense of literary quality against popular acclaim achieved through pretense and mediocrity. Imbriani expresses his frustration with the political and literary landscape of Italy, where artificial reputations overshadow genuine artistic talent. He articulates a passionate desire for a renaissance in Italy's cultural recognition, promoting intellectual independence and a commitment to true artistic merit in his critiques, particularly regarding the poet Aleardo Aleardi. Through these critiques, Imbriani sets a tone of earnestness against what he perceives as the complacency of his contemporaries, demonstrating a stark critique of the superficial engagement with art and literature prevalent in his time.