Piero Bigongiari
Piero Bigongiari (1914-1997) was an influential Italian poet, critic, and translator, known for his contributions to the literary movement of new hermeticism, which emerged as a response to the fascist regime in Italy. Born in Navacchio and raised along the Arno River, Bigongiari's early experiences were shaped by the socio-political landscape of his youth. He earned a Ph.D. in Italian literature from the University of Florence, where he later became a professor of modern Italian literature in 1965. His literary work was marked by a focus on the tensions between stasis and motion, reflecting broader existential themes.
Bigongiari was part of the third generation of hermeticists, whose poetry aimed for spiritual depth amid political oppression. His innovative style incorporated elements of poststructuralism, allowing him to blend theory and art in unique ways. His personal life included a marriage to photographer Elena Ajazzi Mancini in 1951 and extensive travels to places like Greece, Egypt, France, and North America during the 1960s. Through his poetry and critical writings, Bigongiari has left a lasting legacy in Italian literature, characterized by his experimental approach and philosophical inquiry.
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Piero Bigongiari
Poet
- Born: October 15, 1914
- Birthplace: Navacchio, Italy
- Died: October 7, 1997
- Place of death: Florence, Italy
Biography
Piero Bigongiari was born October 15, 1914 in Navacchio, Italy. His parents were Alfredo and Elvira Noccioli Bigongiari. His family moved often, and as a child Bigongiari lived in various towns along the Arno River. The rise of fascism during his youth greatly influenced his work.
Bigongiari received a Ph.D. in Italian literature from the University of Florence in 1936. He wrote his thesis, which was later published, on the poetry of Vallecchi Leopardi. Following graduation, Bigongiari chose not to pursue a teaching position so that he could remain in Florence. He served in the military during World War II. In 1951, he married Elena Ajazzi Mancini, a photographer. He accepted a teaching position at the University of Florence in 1965, and was a professor of modern Italian literature until his death on October 7, 1997.
Bigongiari belonged to a group of poets known as the third generation of hermeticists. This group led a twentieth century Italian cultural movement known as new hermeticism. Although the literary goals of the group were more spiritual than outwardly political, it rebelled against the restrictions imposed by the fascist regime. These opposing tensions shaped the poetry of Bigongiari. His poetry also is influenced by the opposing tensions of stasis and motion.
Although he lived in Florence for much of his life, Bigongiari traveled extensively. He visited Greece and Egypt in 1953 and 1954, and during the 1960’s he frequently visited France, the United States, and Canada. A published poet, critic, and translator, Bigongiari distinguished himself by his innovation, his intertwining of theory and art, and his experimentation with ideas of poststructuralism.