Perfection
Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico, published by Fitzcarraldo Editions on February 13, 2025, is a sociological novel that explores the complexities of modern life through the lens of a millennial expat couple, Anna and Tom. Residing in Berlin, they enjoy a seemingly ideal existence filled with creativity, social engagement, and the vibrant city life that defines their generation. However, beneath the surface of their bright, plant-filled apartment and active social media presence lies a growing sense of dissatisfaction and ennui as they grapple with the realities of their repetitive work and the changing dynamics of their friendships.
In this edition, readers will find a narrative that delves into the couple’s struggle for authenticity amid the pressures of contemporary existence. As Anna and Tom confront their frustrations with political activism and the superficiality of their lifestyle, they embark on a journey that leads them to take increasingly radical steps in search of purpose. The novel touches on themes of city life and the challenges faced by young adults in Europe, offering a thought-provoking examination of the emptiness that can accompany a seemingly perfect life. With 160 pages, this English edition presents a taut and affecting exploration of modern discontent, superbly translated by Sophie Hughes.
Official synopsis Publisher
Millennial expat couple Anna and Tom are living the dream in Berlin, in a bright, affordable, plant-filled apartment. Their life as young digital creatives revolves around slow cooking, Danish furniture, sexual experimentation and the city’s twenty-four-hour party scene – an ideal existence shared by an entire generation and tantalizingly lived out on social media. But beyond the images, dissatisfaction and ennui burgeon. Work becomes repetitive. Friends move back home, have children, grow up. Frustrated that their progressive politics amount to little more in practice than boycotting Uber, tipping in cash, or never eating tuna, Anna and Tom make a fruitless attempt at political activism. Feeling increasingly trapped in their picture-perfect life, the couple takes ever more radical steps in the pursuit of an authenticity and a sense of purpose perennially beyond their grasp. Superbly translated by Sophie Hughes, Vincenzo Latronico’s Perfection is a taut, spare sociological novel about the emptiness of contemporary existence, scathing and brilliantly affecting.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “Perfection” about?
Who is the author of “Perfection”?
When was “Perfection” published?
What is the ISBN for “Perfection”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
