From Refugee to Renowned Author: André Aciman's 'Roman Year' Chronicles Bittersweet Teen Years in Italy
October 22, 2024André Aciman has released a new memoir titled 'Roman Year,' which reflects on his teenage years spent in Italy after leaving Egypt.
The memoir captures Aciman's bittersweet memories of Rome, contrasting the romanticized image of Italy with the harsh realities he faced as a refugee.
In 'Roman Year,' Aciman describes the challenges of adolescence compounded by poverty, as he had to act as a translator and caregiver for his family during their difficult transition.
At the age of 14, Aciman and his family arrived in a refugee camp in Naples, where he took on the responsibility of caring for his deaf and mute mother and younger brother.
Aciman's family, Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain, fled to Egypt and then to Italy in 1965 due to political unrest under President Gamal Abdel Nasser.
The memoir emphasizes themes of yearning and nostalgia, capturing the emotions of transitioning to adulthood.
Aciman is celebrated for both his novels and memoirs, exemplified by his well-known work, 'Call Me by Your Name.'
His first memoir, 'Out of Egypt,' received critical acclaim, with The New York Times praising its surreal and humorous scenes.
Aciman's subsequent novels, including 'Eight White Nights,' have further solidified his reputation as a master storyteller.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources
The New York Times • Oct 21, 2024
How the Writer André Aciman Learned to Live in ExileAir Mail • Oct 19, 2024
André Aciman on "Call Me By Your Name" and His New Memoir, "Roman Year"