Antidote to a Curse

SKU: PR50755

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Sale price$53.60

Description

Discover 'Antidote to a Curse,' a gripping debut novel that deepens the exploration of identity and obsession against the backdrop of 1990s Melbourne. This compelling story, shortlisted for the Most Underrated Book Award in 2019, weaves an intricate tale of Silvio Portelli, who returns to Melbourne after teaching in England. Silvio's life intertwines with that of Nancy Triganza, a vibrant octogenarian who passionately constructs an aviary for her beloved birds, and the enigmatic Zlatko, a Bosnian immigrant with a mysterious past involving rare bird collection.

Embark on a psychological journey as Silvio's life begins to reflect Zlatko's haunting memories, leading him into an introspective realm of dreams and realities. This narrative artfully presents the hunter becoming the hunted, as both men navigate personal demons and societal issues. With powerful imagery and cultural references, 'Antidote to a Curse' invites readers to experience a Melbourne that pulsates with European spirit.

This book is not just a read; it's an experience that delves into themes of desire, identity, and the struggle for self-discovery. Whether you are drawn to literary fiction, psychological narratives, or stories infused with rich character emotion, this novel is a must-have addition to your collection.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW, ISBN: 9781925760033, Year: 2018, Publisher: Transit Lounge.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781925760033
Year: 2018
Publisher: Transit Lounge


Description:


Shortlisted for Most Underrated Book Award 2019

'Cristina and his work evoke Franz Kafka and Arshile Gorky. This novel is an astute exploration of the nature of identity.' — Janette Turner Hospital

It's the 90s. Silvio Portelli returns to Melbourne after time spent teaching in England and rents a room from the charismatic octogenarian, Nancy Triganza. Nancy is having an elaborate aviary constructed to indulge her passion for birds. At a city sex shop, Silvio meets the mysterious Zlatko, a Bosnian immigrant and, in a previous life, a collector of rare birds. Silvio becomes obsessed with Zlatko, and his own journal and dreams begin to mirror Zlatko's past, and in time the reality of what happened in Bosnia. Such revelations are counterpointed by Silvio's own tense wait to learn the results of his tests for HIV.


Bold in design, Antidote to a Curseis a story in which the hunter becomes the hunted, the writer the subject, and vice versa. Cristina lovingly captures Stalactites cafe where Zlatko and Silvio often meet, and a city enmeshed with Europe, both physically and in spirit.


Rich with images and allusions yet grounded in the everydayAntidote to aCurseis a startling debut. Cristina subtly draws the reader deeper and deeper into a state of psychological obsession where only the truth can provide a way out.

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