And suddenly it’s evening

Description:

Ed è subito sera is one of the most famous poems by Salvatore Quasimodo, published in his 1930 collection of the same name. This brief yet profound poem is often cited for its succinct encapsulation of existential themes and is considered a cornerstone of Quasimodo’s literary legacy.

The poem, consisting of just three lines, captures a sense of sudden darkness and existential melancholy. It reflects on the brevity of life and the swift passage of time, themes central to much of Quasimodo’s work. The imagery of the evening falling “suddenly” evokes the inevitability of death and the ephemeral nature of human existence.

Quasimodo’s use of simple, stark language in Ed è subito sera illustrates his hermetic style, where deep and complex emotions are conveyed through minimalistic expression. This poem, along with others in the collection, contributed to Quasimodo’s reputation as a leading figure in 20th-century Italian poetry and ultimately earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1959.

About the poet:

Salvatore Quasimodo (1901-1968) was an influential Italian poet and a central figure in the Hermetic movement, a literary trend characterized by obscure and highly symbolic language. Born in Modica, Sicily, Quasimodo’s early life was marked by frequent relocations due to his father’s work as a railway official. He studied engineering in Rome but never completed his degree, turning instead to literature. His early work, including the collection “Acque e terre” (1930), reflected his Sicilian roots and a deep connection to nature. Over time, his poetry evolved to embrace more complex themes, including human suffering and existentialism, as seen in his collections Oboe sommerso (1932) and Erato e Apòllion (1936).

Quasimodo’s literary career reached its zenith in the post-war period, with his poetry increasingly reflecting the social and political upheavals of the time. His work during this period, such as Giorno dopo giorno (1947), displayed a clear shift towards social engagement and a denunciation of war. In 1959, Quasimodo was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his “lyrical poetry, which with classical fire expresses the tragic experience of life in our own times.” He remains a towering figure in 20th-century Italian literature, celebrated for his profound and evocative verse that continues to resonate with readers today.

1. Quasimodo, Salvatore. Ed è subito sera. Milan: Mondadori, 1942.

2.“Salvatore Quasimodo.” Nobel Prize, Nobel Prize Organization. Accessed July 1, 2024. https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/literature/1959/quasimodo/biographical/

3. Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia. “Salvatore Quasimodo.” Encyclopedia Britannica, June 10, 2024. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Salvatore-Quasimodo.