Dante's first major work links 31 poems inspired by his love of Beatrice, with a prose narrative that celebrates the subject of love while commenting on the nature of the poet's art.

La Vita Nuova (1292Ð94) has many aspects. DanteÕs libello, or Òlittle book,Ó is most obviously a book about love. In a sequence of thirty-one poems, the author recounts his love of Beatrice from his first sight of her (when he was nine and she eight), through unrequited love and chance encounters, to his profound grief sixteen years later at her sudden and unexpected death. Linked with DanteÕs verse are commentaries on the individual poemsÑtheir form and meaningÑas well as the events and feelings from which they originate. Through these commentaries the poet comes to see romantic love as the first step in a spiritual journey that leads to salvation and the capacity for divine love. He aims to reside with Beatrice among the stars. David Slavitt gives us a readable and appealing translation of one of the early, defining masterpieces of European literature, animating its verse and prose with a fluid, lively, and engaging idiom and rhythm. His translation makes this first major book of DanteÕs stand out as a powerful work of art in its own regard, independent of its ÒjuniorÓ status to La Commedia. In an Introduction, Seth Lerer considers Dante as a poet of civic life. ÒBeatrice,Ó he reminds us, Òlives as much on city streets and open congregations as she does in bedroom fantasies and dreams.Ó

In this new edition Musa views Dante's intention as one of cruel and comic commentary on the shallowness and self-pity of his protagonist, who only occasionally glimpses the true nature of love. ". . . the explication de texte which accompanies [Musa's] translation is instructively novel, always admirable. . . . This present work offers English readers a lengthy appraisal which should figure in future scholarly discussions." —Choice

"A fresh, new version of a 1962 translation that has had enormous popularity in comparative literature classes. The Vita Nuova (the New Life) is a small book which relates in prose and often very beautiful verse the story of the youthful Dante's love for Beatrice. The esay which follows the translation provides new insights into this puzzling thirteenth-century work. Musa regards Dante's intention in this so-called "Book of Memory" as a cruel and comic commentary on the youthful lover. He argues that Dante, using the tradition of love poetry current in his time, points up the foolishness and shallowness of his protagonist, a self-centered and self-pitying youth who only occasionally in the progress of his suffering catches even a glimpse of the true nature of Love or his beloved. "The sensitive man who would realize a man's destiny must ruthlessly cut out of his heart the canker at its center [i.e. self-pity], the canker that the heart instinctively tends to cultivate." According to Musa, this is one of Dante's central ideas. Dante scholars, libraries, and students of the Italian classics will welcome this distinguished translation and its provocative commentary"--Back cover.

A vivid reimagining of the Vita nuova as a revolution in poetry and a revelation of divine destiny through love.

Dante Alighieri's 'The New Life (La Vita Nuova)' is a captivating work that blends prose and poetry to recount the author's experiences of love and loss. Written in the form of a memoir, this literary masterpiece showcases Dante's profound emotions, intricate language, and deep philosophical reflections. The book's integration of poetic verses alongside prose passages creates a unique and innovative narrative style that is both compelling and poetic. Set against the backdrop of medieval Florence, 'The New Life' explores themes of unrequited love, spiritual awakening, and the power of poetry to elevate the soul. With its lyrical prose and heartfelt expressions, this work remains a timeless classic in the literary canon. Dante Alighieri, known for his epic poem 'The Divine Comedy,' drew inspiration from his own life experiences and relationships to pen 'The New Life.' As a prominent figure in Italian literature, Dante's personal journey of love and longing provides a glimpse into his creative process and emotional depth. His ability to intertwine personal narrative with literary excellence showcases his mastery of the written word and his profound understanding of human emotions. For readers seeking a profound exploration of love, loss, and the transformative power of poetry, Dante Alighieri's 'The New Life (La Vita Nuova)' is a must-read. With its timeless themes and poetic beauty, this book offers a window into the soul of one of the most renowned poets in history, making it a valuable addition to any literary enthusiast's collection.