The Child of Pleasure

D'Annunzio was an early 20th century poet, journalist, novelist, and dramatist. His controversial role in Italian politics of the fascist movement and his being a mentor to Benito Mussolini makes him an interesting figure. The Child of Pleasure was written in 1888. Andrea is a young count living in the late 19th century whose life is full of decadence and aestheticism. Andrea lives his life seeking beauty and hating the common. Andrea rejects basic morals and lives his life as if it were a work of art.