Walter Pedullà, renowned Italian literary critic and former president of Rai, passed away at the age of 94. He died on December 26 at his home in Rome following a long battle with Parkinson's disease, as confirmed by his family. Born on October 10, 1930, in Siderno, Calabria, Pedullà's life was characterized by his fervent engagement with literature and politics.
Pedullà graduated with a degree in Letters from the University of Messina, where he was mentored by the prominent literary figure Giacomo Debenedetti. He dedicated decades to academia, teaching modern and contemporary Italian literature at La Sapienza University from 1958 until his retirement as professor emeritus in 2005. Over his career, he left behind numerous students and influential works, establishing himself as a formidable intellect and educator.
Collaboratively, Pedullà was part of Rai’s board from 1977 to1992, serving as president of the public service broadcaster between 1992 and 1993. His tenure was marked by his deep belief in the cultural mission of public broadcasting. The Rai paid homage to him, stating, "The news of Walter Pedullà's passing deeply saddens everyone at Rai, remembering the great passion with which he served from 1977 to 1992." Giampaolo Rossi, the current CEO of Rai, noted Pedullà as "a master of criticism with a high vision of the role of Rai."
Pedullà's literary contributions extend beyond criticism; he was also recognized for his role as an author and journalist. He made his mark as the literary critic for the socialist newspaper 'L'Avanti!' from 1961 to 1993, and later collaborated with various other publications, including 'Il Messaggero,' 'L'Unità,' and 'Italia Oggi.' His editorial work included overseeing the twelve-volume "Storia generale della letteratura italiana" published by Rizzoli and Motta.
Throughout his life, Pedullà received numerous accolades, including the Flaiano Special Prize for his book "Il pallone di stoffa. Memorie di un nonagenario," published in 2020. This work, which reflects on his ninety-year saga filled with remarkable events, has been widely praised. Pedullà shared tales of his life, including his experience of 'dying and coming back to life,' presenting it with the same irony he employed throughout his writings.
His bibliography includes extensive studies on noted authors, exploring core literary movements of the 20th century, such as futurism and avant-garde literature. Works like "La letteratura del benessere," "Crisi globale, pane duro e dolce fantasia," and his memoirs articulate his insights and thoughts on Italy's literary evolution over decades.
He was known not only as a critic but also as an intellectual activist with socialist values. His involvement with cultural politics was evident, pushing him to critique contemporary political figures candidly, including Silvio Berlusconi. Pedullà once quipped about the essence of life’s impact, stating, "Only those who reach the end will know if they lived a tragic or comic life. If the conclusion seems ridiculous, let's laugh about it." His humor and perspective on life enriched his written and spoken narratives and endeared him to many.
The Italian literary community has expressed deep sorrow over Pedullà’s passing. Writer Andrea Di Consoli took to social media to commemorate him, saying, "I say goodbye to a Master. To an extraordinary guide. To a superior intelligence.” The Italian cultural sphere acknowledges the significant loss of someone who devoted his life to the advancement of literature and culture.
Pedullà's legacy will endure through his vast works and the countless lives he touched as both mentor and critic. His views on literature and society continue to resonate, serving as references for future critiques and inspiring younger generations of readers and writers. While he may have departed this world, his influence within Italian literature is indelible, and he will be remembered as one of the major figures of 20th-century literary critique.
