Blog

Jul

14

2023

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By Veritas Artifex

Death as Inspiring Muse: The Ballad ‘Memento Mori’ by Marco Mattiuzzi

Art, Literature

Sailing through the seas of times and ages, we are transported back to medieval times by a ballad reminding us of our impending death: Memento Mori. A creation born from the pen and passion for history of Marco Mattiuzzi, a multifaceted talent whose art ranges from literature to music, from photography to graphics.Marco Mattiuzzi tackles the macabre, fascinating, and universal theme of mortality with a unique sensitivity. The call to death, echoing in every stanza, is actually an invitation to contemplate life, to recognize its precariousness and to live it fully.The ballad, in all its dark splendor, opens with an…

Jul

14

2023

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By Redazione Estrosfere

The Healing Waters: Embracing Intimacy in Home Bathing Rituals

Wellness

Water, a vital pillar for Earth's ecosystem, has always held additional symbolic roles in human existence. It has been seen as a medium for purification, regeneration, and rebirth, on both physical and spiritual levels. Much like in the ancient Roman baths, the contemporary home bathroom encapsulates these dimensions. It is not merely a space for bodily hygiene, but also a haven of tranquility from the hectic pace of the modern world. Could we, perhaps, reinterpret the use of this familiar corner in an even more intimate and shared light? In many cultures, the common practice of bathing or showering is…

Jul

14

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

TOR: Anonymity as a Shield for Dissidents in Dictatorial Countries

Society, Technology

Introduction: The Value of Privacy in the Digital Age In an increasingly connected world, the Internet has become the primary space for the exchange of ideas and personal expression. Every day, billions of people use the network for work, communication, shopping, gaining information, and much more. However, this incredible resource has also brought new challenges in terms of privacy and data security. Each time we browse the web, we leave behind a digital footprint that can be collected, analyzed, and in some cases, exploited. Companies, governments, and malicious actors can use this information for a variety of purposes, not always…

Jul

14

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

Deciphering the Lexicon of Art: Symbols, Colors, and Meanings Across Eras

Art

Introduction Art speaks not with words, yet it communicates with us, telling stories, evoking emotions, and stimulating reflections. It does so through a language of symbols, signs, colors, and shapes, which together create what we might call the "lexicon of art". A fundamental aspect to consider is that this lexicon is not universal: each artist, each culture, each historical period has its own. The Language of Art: Symbols, Signs, and Meanings Art, like many other forms of human communication, has its own language. This language is not made of words, but of symbols, signs, colors, and shapes, which together create…

Jul

14

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

The Digital Fame Playbook: Mastering Visibility in the Modern Age

Society

Introduction:In the digital age, the thirst for fame and visibility has sparked an ever-evolving spectacle, where individuals from various spheres - artists, professionals, and others - embrace increasingly creative strategies to capture public attention. This article delves into how people often adopt bold, sometimes even transgressive tactics in their quest for fame that might otherwise elude them.The Ten Commandments of Success: How to Become Famous in 10 Days:In a world marked by media frenzy and online interactions, a "Ten Commandments of Success" seems to have emerged - a series of ten steps that appear to be a secret manual for…

Jul

14

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

Photography: Art or Craftsmanship?

Art

Introduction: In the contemporary artistic landscape, photography has long held an ambiguous position. Since its invention in the 19th century, it has sparked debates and controversies, swinging between acceptance as an art form and delegitimization as a mere technical tool. In this brief essay, we will explore the issue from various angles, with the aim of unveiling the multiple facets of this fascinating medium. Photography as Art: Challenging Conventions Since its birth in the 19th century, photography has fought for legitimacy in the realm of art. Many disputed its place among the fine arts, considering it merely as a means…

Jul

14

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

Mysteries of Naples: The Sacred and the Profane at Santa Luciella ai Librai

History, Society

In the fervent and chaotic belly of Naples, amidst narrow streets and ancient buildings that tell tales of times past, lies a sacred place steeped in mystery and unconventional spirituality. This is the church of Santa Luciella ai Librai, the guardian of a tradition deeply rooted in the Neapolitan popular culture, that of the worship of the 'anime pezzentelle' or needy souls. In the pale light of a twilight reflected among the narrow alleys, the entrance to the church appears as a gateway to the unknown. A sense of mysterious sanctity, imbued with a sober and refined beauty, welcomes the…

Jul

13

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

A Journey Along the Via Francigena

Society, Wellness

There exists a path as old as Europe itself, winding through breathtaking landscapes and charming villages, offering a journey through time and into one’s inner self. This is the Via Francigena, an ancient route guiding pilgrims from Canterbury to Rome, crossing four nations – England, France, Switzerland, and Italy.It’s the Via Francigena, also known as the Via Romea or Francisca. More than just an ancient pilgrimage route, it’s a corridor of stories, cultures, and spirituality that has spanned Europe for centuries, connecting the north to the south, from the heart of England to the eternal city of Rome, and even…

Jul

12

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

Eternal Echoes in Padua: The Monumento Funebre ai De Marchetti

Art, History

Upon crossing the threshold of the Basilica of Saint Anthony in Padua, one finds themselves immersed in a world of sacred art, history, and spirituality. Commonly known as the Basilica of the Saint, the building is a true architectural gem, an essential visit for anyone in the city. Inside, dozens of artworks can be counted, each with its unique charm, but there is one monument that always strikes me particularly.It is the funerary monument, the Monumento Funebre ai De Marchetti. This work, which harmoniously combines artistic beauty with a call to deep reflections on human existence, fascinates me every time…

Jul

11

2023

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By Marco Mattiuzzi

Blurring Boundaries: Genre vs. Literary Fiction

Literature

Let's start from the beginning, outlining the perimeter of what we are about to discuss. What is meant by "genre literature," and what does the definition of "serious literature" encompass?Genre literature, as the name suggests, refers to books that fall into specific categories, or "genres," such as mystery, fantasy, romance, science fiction, horror, and thriller. These books tend to follow well-defined narrative rules and structures, giving the reader a clear expectation of what they will find.Serious literature, or "high" literature, refers to works that deal with profound and universal themes, investigating the human condition in all its aspects, not constrained…