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Book Review
Jan Morris
Venice
Read by Sebastian Gomberti
Naxos Audiobooks NA435312 4CDs 5:16 DDD
ISBN 1843793539
Also available unabridged on Naxos NAX27112 (10CDs):
Amazon
- UK
- Germany
- Canada
- France
- Japan
- ArkivMusic
- CD Universe
- JPC
Having recently been a visitor to the city of wonders, I can safely say that Jan Morris' inimitable account of the capital of Veneto is not only indispensable but utterly essential for any self respecting cultural enthusiast. Sebastian Gomberti is the ideal narrator bringing stark effect and almost unbearable nostalgia to Morris' purple prose which is lush and majestic at almost every turn. It is clear that the author loves the city with an unabashed passion, almost lustful are the long winded descriptions of the many magnificent palazzi and churches. It is truly a labour of love and its accuracy and sense of occasion is nothing short of miarculaous.
You may think I am waxing too lyrical about this audiobook but as always, the only tonic is to hear it for yourself. I for one remain captivated by Morris' description of the wondrous canal system, unqiue in the world, the social history of the gondolas and the many quirks which make this city so unique in many ways. And of course, if you visit Venice after hearing Morris' magnum opus then you will never see it in the same eyes again.
Copyright © 2011, Gerald Fenech
