1947 - 7 Summary

Davide wrestles in a feverish sleep with tormented dreams and images that call into question the truths about his core beliefs, the choices he has made, his experiences and the nature of reality. His dreams seem to cover every aspect of his life and thoughts, including those of future technology and ancient philosophies. Memories of Nino and of the young German soldier Davide killed pop up through symbolism in his nightmares. He is physically ill with withdrawal, struggling desperately for the willpower to end his addictions. He relives the memory of his mother's gift of a necktie, which is symbolic, in his mind, of all that is bourgeoisie.

Useppe and Bella find that Scimo really is missing. In the afternoon, with the bottle of wine in hand, they go to Davide's as planned, but the ravaged Davide shouts obscenely for them to leave...