Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay

Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay continues Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan series, following Elena (Lenù) and Lila in 1970s Italy. The narrative tracks their diverging paths as Lenù pursues an academic career and marriage in Florence while Lila remains in Naples working in harsh factory conditions. The book explores the social and political climate of Italy during a period of labor unrest and feminist awakening. Through their experiences in different worlds - the intellectual circles of Florence and the working-class environment of Naples - the two women maintain their complex friendship while confronting their individual struggles. Both women face challenges in their chosen paths: Lenù with motherhood and writing, Lila with physical labor and self-education. Their relationship continues to anchor the story as they navigate marriage, work, and the evolving roles of women in Italian society. The novel examines how class, education, and geography shape identity and opportunity, while questioning the true nature of progress and success in women's lives. Through its dual narratives, the book presents a raw portrait of female friendship against the backdrop of social transformation.

Readers note this third volume maintains the intensity of the friendship between Elena and Lila while expanding into themes of class mobility, political upheaval, and domestic violence in 1970s Naples. Readers appreciate: - The raw, honest portrayal of female friendship with its complications and jealousies - Rich historical context of Italy's "Years of Lead" - Character development as Elena and Lila face adult responsibilities - The exploration of marriage, motherhood, and career ambitions Common criticisms: - Slower pacing compared to previous books - More political discussion that some found tedious - Less direct interaction between the main characters Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (147,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (2,800+ ratings) "The psychological depth keeps me coming back" writes one Goodreads reviewer, while another notes "the political segments dragged." Several readers mention the book requires concentration due to its large cast of characters and multiple plot threads.

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante The first book in the Neapolitan series traces the roots of Lila and Elena's friendship in post-war Naples, offering the foundation story for readers drawn to the complex female relationships in Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay.

A Life's Work by Rachel Cusk A memoir of motherhood that captures the tension between intellectual pursuits and domestic responsibilities that Elena experiences in her Florence life.

The Golden Notebook by Doris Lessing Chronicles a woman writer's political awakening and personal struggles in the 1950s, mirroring the themes of feminism and social change present in Ferrante's work.

The Women of Rome by Alberto Moravia Presents the interconnected lives of women in post-war Italy, exploring class differences and social constraints in a way that echoes the Naples-Florence divide.

The Days of Abandonment by Elena Ferrante Examines a woman's unraveling after her marriage ends, delving into the raw emotional territory and unflinching perspective on female experience that characterizes the Neapolitan novels.

🔸 Elena Ferrante is a pen name, and despite the books' massive success, the author's true identity remains one of literature's best-kept secrets, fiercely protected to maintain creative freedom. 🔸 The 1970s Italy backdrop featured in the novel was a period known as the "Years of Lead," marked by extreme political terrorism, social unrest, and dramatic economic changes. 🔸 The series' original Italian title "L'amica geniale" translates to "The Brilliant Friend," which differs from the English market titles but captures the central focus on female friendship. 🔸 The book's portrayal of Naples' working-class neighborhood, where much of the story takes place, is based on the Rione Luzzatti district, which has become a literary tourist destination. 🔸 The computer science element in Lila's storyline reflects a pivotal moment in Italian history when IBM was establishing its first major operations in the country, marking the beginning of Italy's technological modernization.