The aim of this work is to provide an intimate portrait of Dacia Maraini's
interactions with both scholars and students alike, as well as to offer insight
into her ideas and beliefs regarding current and historical themes and events.
The present volume, Dacia Maraini and Her Literary Journey, is divided into two
parts: "Talks and Essays" and "Interviews and Conversations". Each talk given
at American universities touches on the topic of writing from different points of
view, including Maraini's own path as a writer, and the importance of female
writers' historical and literary journeys. The essay "A Letter on Abortion"
demonstrates how relevant the topic of abortion is, as well as the complex,
multifaceted debate that has always surrounded it. "Chinese Olives" talks about
being intimate with someone without having sex.

The second part, composed of nine interviews, spans many different
topics, although several key themes come to the fore. Maraini's childhood
experience in Japan is recounted in relation to several different topics, including
the development of her literary voice. Maraini connects women's rights to
many spheres, for example the writings of female mystics, the disobedience
to the Church of Clare of Assisi, and the specificity of Italian feminism. Her
interactions with students in the classroom at the University of Rhode Island also
offers the reader an opportunity to see how Maraini reflects on past publications
such as Memoirs of a Female Thief and Buio. The specific nature of this work,
shaped through conversations and talks in university settings, sheds light on
Dacia Mariani's infinite contribution to both literature and society.