It is dark outside and raining, making the environment of the Palazzi Community Center even more cozy than usual. Inside, Christmas lights twinkle in every corner, and shelves upon shelves of books surround the room, reminiscent of a magical space reminiscent of Hogwarts. Students begin to filter in, chatting with friends and fellow readers, eagerly awaiting the start of the evening’s reading.

Once the discussions quiet down, the reading begins. Two women take turns, reading different characters’ lines with enthusiasm. Both the author and the women are visibly excited to share Daniele Landi’s work with the audience, adding an extra layer of energy to the event.

Landi shares the inspiration behind his latest work, describing how he became increasingly aware of the pervasive loneliness in modern life. He observed people sitting side by side—on trains, for example—yet deeply engrossed in their own solitude, often absorbed by social media or preoccupied by personal thoughts. Initially, he intended to write a book specifically about loneliness, but he decided instead to explore the theme through a romance. By weaving the concept into a narrative, he hoped to illustrate how individuals can become lost in themselves, even as they seek connection.

The train serves as a central metaphor in Landi’s book. He notes how some passengers scroll through social media, choosing virtual distraction, while others strike up conversations, opting for human connection. This choice, he believes, underscores the tension between solitude and engagement in today’s world.

When asked why he chose to write a book in an increasingly digital age, Landi replied with “Passione per la carta”—a passion for paper. While many believe that printed media is fading into obscurity, he asserts that books will never truly die. There is a unique sensory experience to reading that cannot be replicated digitally. Books often accompany us in solitude, yet they can also bridge the gap to shared human experiences.

Depicting a world where silence and solitude holds power, the book represents the importance of human connection, and the fear of losing it due to technology. In a way, the book denies the digital world as important by being released on paper. Although many love to listen to audio books, the author pushes his idea of books never dying, and the importance of them in today’s world.

Landi emphasizes the importance of human contact. He noted that even this interview involved three people—himself, the interviewer, and the translator—engaged in a shared dialogue. This pushes his point across. Artificial Intelligence, he says, could be doing this for us, but the choice to speak to one another gives a different experience. This philosophy is so prevalent in today’s world, and Landi does an incredible job of putting this philosophy into words.

The Palazzi Community Center regularly hosts creative events like book readings, art exhibitions, and more. If you’re inspired to share your own work, consider submitting a proposal to officepresident@fua.it for a chance to host your own showcase. Bring your family and friends, and immerse yourself in the magic of creativity.