Ask the Dust

Historical Context and Significance

«Ask the Dust» by John Fante is an important work of American literature, particularly in the context of Los Angeles literature and the genre of autobiographical prose. Published in 1939, the book tells the story of a young writer, Arturo Bandini, who is trying to find his place in the world while battling poverty and personal failures. Fante masterfully captures the atmosphere of 1930s Los Angeles, creating vivid and memorable images. The novel had a significant influence on subsequent writers, including Charles Bukowski, who called Fante his literary mentor. «Ask the Dust» also contributed to the development of the 'urban novel' genre, exploring themes of loneliness, ambition, and human vulnerability in the big city.