New York

New York is the main setting for Parts I, II, and IV of the novel. Many of the characters are drawn to New York because their interest in American culture outweighs their interest in Italian culture: Lorenzo’s short film is an homage to Hollywood movies and Tullio tells Berengo that his sons want to be “Rockstar americane” (91). New York is depicted as an aspirational place for wealthy Italians that stands in contrast to the lack of opportunities available in Italy.

Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Williamsburg in Brooklyn is the location where Ludovica and Lorenzo move to when they leave Italy for New York. Ludovica’s attachment to living in Williamsburg is symbolic of her selfishness and unwillingness to sacrifice her own preferences for the sake of her husband: they live in Williamsburg because the area is famous and thus attractive to Ludovica, despite it being inconvenient for Lorenzo...