Massimo Maugeri’s latest novel, Quel che facciamo dell’amore, isn’t simply a love story; it’s an exploration of the quiet, often unexpected ways connections form and endure. Published by La Nave di Teseo, the book centers on a decades-long relationship sparked by a seemingly chance encounter at a Paul McCartney concert in Rome in 2003. It’s a narrative that delves into the complexities of love, coincidence, and the enduring power of shared experience, prompting a reflection on what truly defines a meaningful connection.
The novel has already garnered attention within Italy’s literary circles, receiving a nomination for the prestigious Premio Strega 2026. Giorgio Nisini, in his nomination statement, highlighted Maugeri’s expansion of traditional understandings of love, building upon the framework established by C.S. Lewis, who identified four core types – affection, friendship, eros, and charity – by adding a fifth: responsibility. This addition, Nisini argues, imbues the novel with a contemporary ethical resonance. The book, a follow-up to Maugeri’s acclaimed Cetti Curfino, isn’t a straightforward romance, but rather a nuanced examination of how love manifests in unpredictable ways.
A Fortuitous Meeting at the Fori Imperiali
The story unfolds around the meeting of an unnamed Italian writer and Martha Mengini Suffenlaw, an American lawyer of Italian descent. Their paths cross amidst the excitement of McCartney’s performance at the Fori Imperiali. The encounter, initially appearing random, quickly becomes the foundation for a relationship that spans over twenty years. Maugeri deliberately avoids framing the meeting as purely accidental, suggesting that some connections are destined, even if their future remains uncertain. Present with Martha are her husband, David, and their thirteen-year-old daughter, Jodie, adding another layer of complexity to the initial meeting.
Martha’s deep-seated passion for The Beatles, particularly McCartney and the band’s early American tours – including the legendary 1964 appearance on the Ed Sullivan Reveal and the 1965 Shea Stadium concert – becomes a central element of the narrative. Following the concert, she initiates a “rite of proximity,” maintaining contact through emails and, eventually, video calls. This ongoing connection isn’t merely about shared fandom; it’s a deliberate attempt to understand the forces that bring people together, a search for meaning within coincidence and the seemingly random events of life.
“Martha My Dear” and the Search for Meaning
The writer, affectionately nicknamed “Paperback Writer” by Martha, finds himself increasingly drawn into her world, captivated by her relentless pursuit of patterns and connections. Martha’s quest, as Maugeri portrays it, isn’t simply about nostalgia for The Beatles; it’s a deeper exploration of the inexplicable chain of events that shape a life. She seeks to understand why certain moments unfold as they do, driven by a need to locate logic within the seemingly chaotic nature of existence. This search, the novel suggests, is a universal human impulse.
As their connection deepens, the writer grapples with his own evolving feelings, acknowledging the natural and undeniable pull he feels towards Martha. He reflects on the profound impact of certain encounters, writing, “Notice encounters that pass through us without a trace. There are others that mark us forever, drawing a deep line of demarcation on the plane of existence.” The narrative takes a turn when a hurricane forces the writer to travel to New York, setting the stage for further complications and revelations.
More Than a Love Story: A Call for Solidarity
Beyond the central love story, Quel che facciamo dell’amore offers a subtle yet powerful commentary on broader social issues. The novel, as noted by reviewers, incorporates a wealth of information about Paul McCartney and The Beatles, but also serves as a “generous and necessary appeal for solidarity and respect for all.” It’s a call against discrimination, rooted in Martha’s own activism, and a plea for a more inclusive and compassionate world. The author subtly references The Beatles’ own stance at a 1965 concert in Jacksonville, Florida, on September 11th – a date that carries a heavy weight of historical significance.
Maugeri’s function isn’t simply a romantic narrative; it’s a thoughtful exploration of human connection, the search for meaning, and the importance of empathy. The novel invites readers to consider the role of chance, responsibility, and the enduring power of shared experiences in shaping our lives. It’s a story that resonates with the universal desire to understand the forces that bring us together and the enduring impact of those connections.
Readers can expect a story rich in detail and character development, prompting reflection on the nature of love and the complexities of human relationships. The novel’s exploration of coincidence and fate, coupled with its subtle social commentary, positions it as a significant contribution to contemporary Italian literature. The next step for the novel is the announcement of the Premio Strega shortlist in the coming months, where it will compete for one of Italy’s most prestigious literary awards.
What are your thoughts on the role of chance encounters in shaping our lives? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
