Italy Takes the Spotlight at the 76th Frankfurt Book Fair

This year, Italy proudly steps into the limelight as the national guest of honour at the prestigious 76th Frankfurt Book Fair, marking the first time since 1988 that the country has been bestowed with this esteemed title. The Frankfurt Book Fair, recognized as the world’s oldest and largest book fair, attracts a global audience of literary enthusiasts, publishers, and authors eager to engage in the vibrant exchange of ideas and culture.

The Italian delegation is spearheaded by the Italian Publishers Association (AIE) and includes prominent figures such as Alessandro Giuli, Italy’s Minister of Culture, along with a selection of the nation’s most celebrated literary talents. However, the presence of politicians linked to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, alongside the notable absence of key literary figures, has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions regarding the inclusivity of the event.

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A Rich History of the Frankfurt Book Fair

The history of the Frankfurt Book Fair dates back over 500 years, predating the invention of printed books. Initially, it began as a modest marketplace for selling handwritten manuscripts, evolving into a more formal fair after Johannes Gutenberg introduced the printing press in the 15th century. The fair was reestablished post-World War II in 1949, and since 1976, it has honored a different country as the guest of honour each year. Each selected guest country is given a dedicated exhibition hall and a comprehensive literary programme, with Italy last appearing in this role in 1988, succeeding Slovenia from the previous year.

Notable Attendees and Controversial Absences

Among the Italian delegation, three distinguished keynote speakers are scheduled to present: renowned physicist and author Carlo Rovelli, celebrated writer Susanna Tamaro, and philosopher Stefano Zecchi. The lineup features many of the biggest names in Italian literature. However, the press has quickly highlighted a significant absence: the acclaimed author Roberto Saviano.

Saviano, aged 45, is widely recognized for his courageous writings exposing Italian organized crime, particularly through his groundbreaking investigative journalism book “Gomorrah.” He has faced numerous death threats and has spent years under police protection due to the nature of his work. The absence of Saviano from the initial delegation raised suspicions that it was a political move against him, particularly given his outspoken criticism of the current far-right Meloni government. Notably, the prime minister filed a lawsuit against Saviano last year for €1,000 after he referred to her as a “bastard” during a television interview.

Despite the initial confusion, Saviano has since confirmed his attendance at the fair at the request of its director, Jürgen Boos. Innocenzo Cipolletta, president of AIE, explained to Euronews Culture that the programme was built on proposals from publishers, which did not initially include Saviano. “Other prominent Italian authors were also absent, and while any absence is regrettable, following the established procedures helps ensure impartiality,” Cipolletta stated. He expressed relief that Saviano would still participate, emphasizing that misunderstandings should not overshadow the fair’s objectives.

A Contemporary Perspective on Italian Literature

Reflecting on Italy’s previous appearance as the guest of honour, many viewed that period as a peak for Italian literature, with iconic figures like Umberto Eco and future Nobel Prize-winner Dario Fo gaining international acclaim. This year’s motto for the fair, “Roots in the Future,” aims to blend an appreciation for Italy’s rich literary heritage with a forward-looking vision. Cipolletta remarked that the current moment signifies a new zenith in Italian publishing, with post-pandemic sales reaching impressive heights. “New authors are emerging in bookstores, eager to narrate the story of contemporary Italy,” he noted, adding that the global reach of Italian literature has expanded significantly over the past two decades, with translation rights sold abroad having quadrupled.

Over 90 authors are part of the official Italian delegation, including notable figures such as Alessandro Baricco, Annalena Benini, Paolo Cognetti, Claudia Durastanti, Antonio Franchini, Nicola Lagioia, Claudio Magris, Francesca Melandri, and Igiaba Scego. Although not officially part of the delegation, Saviano is also expected to engage in a discussion with Deniz Yücel, co-chair of PEN Berlin, focusing on “Literature & Politics: Writing in Illiberal Times.”

Despite the notable representation of Italian literature, some writers have expressed concerns about the programme’s perceived bias towards Meloni’s government. Paolo Giordano, known for his novel “The Solitude of Prime Numbers,” articulated his feelings about the state of freedom of expression in Italy, stating, “Freedom of expression is punished in our country. That’s a reality, not just an impression.”

Other authors have claimed to have faced outright censorship by the state. Antonio Scurati, whose novel “M. Son of the Century” chronicles the rise of Benito Mussolini, revealed that he has been denied access to speak on state radio during Italy’s national holiday. “This is the reality for those who are critical of power,” he remarked during the event in Frankfurt.

In response to these claims, Cipolletta reassured that all authors participating in Frankfurt are free to discuss any topic and express their views openly within the Italy Guest of Honour Pavilion, designed as a space for dialogue and civic discourse. “They will have the opportunity to voice their opinions without restrictions, fostering an environment of respect for differing viewpoints,” he asserted. The Italian delegation, led by Giuli—known for his past controversial comments supporting figures like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin—underscores the importance of artistic freedom, according to Cipolletta, who maintains that AIE operates independently of government influence.