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I, Caravaggio
The famous bi-sexual libertine who would be more at home on Tinder than at a Roman Cathedral, gallivants through the streets like brush strokes to become a Baroque 16th century icon. The year is 1604 and Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio is a superstar, his blockbuster paintings packing the pews of Rome. Caravaggio should be reveling in prosperity, but the artistic trailblazer and nefarious street-brawler is his own worst enemy. While the genius paints masterpieces, the ruffian in him can’t stay out of jail. Caravaggio is a man at existential odds with himself until falling in love with Lena Antognetti, the prostitute modeling his newest Virgin pictures. Caravaggio paints Lena into a life of wealth and celebrity, but the power couple’s provocative fame earns them a horde of resentful and jealous enemies. I, Caravaggio dramatizes the superstar’s psychological unraveling under the sexual and political pressures of the Catholic Reformation.
342 pages, Paperback
Published July 25, 2023
6 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Eugenio Volpe
2 books18 followersBoston native Eugenio Volpe is a former PEN Discovery Award winner. His eBook The Message was published by SolsticeLit Books. His short stories have appeared in The Massachusetts Review, Salamander, New York Tyrant, Post Road, The Nervous Breakdown, and dozens more. He resides in Los Angeles with his wife and son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 5, 2023
**** I received a free advance copy in exchange for this review. The following is my honest opinion of the book. ****
I always know when I pick up a book published by Clash Books that it's going to be at least a little subversive and probably outrageous. This one is no exception.
For the entire book we are inside Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio's head. Deep inside. And it is a trip. Caravaggio, in addition to being an artistic genius synonymous with the technique of chiaroscuro, was a man with a temper who courted fights in the streets of Rome, was arrested more than once, accidentally (maybe) killed a man, fled to Naples, entered and then was kicked out of the Knights of Malta, was pardoned and then got himself into MORE trouble. He painted the common people, in all their glory and imperfections, and elevated them to saintly status.
The novel is a fictional account of his life but the author, while taking obvious liberties with what was going on inside the genius' mind and writing in a very contemporary language, stayed true to the things we do know about the man and the artist. The story is narrated from multiple points of view inside the artist's mind - Caravaggio the genius artist, Michelangelo the man, and a sort of overarching "I." These voices act as Id, Ego and Superego, but could also function as an unholy Trinity of sorts. It took me a chapter or two to get settled into the rhythm but once you do, it's a roller coaster and so fun.
If you think that a novel about one of the Old Masters has to be dull and upstanding, think again. This story is a wild, hedonistic, possibly sacrilegious and very much entertaining ride through the life of an icon.
I always know when I pick up a book published by Clash Books that it's going to be at least a little subversive and probably outrageous. This one is no exception.
For the entire book we are inside Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio's head. Deep inside. And it is a trip. Caravaggio, in addition to being an artistic genius synonymous with the technique of chiaroscuro, was a man with a temper who courted fights in the streets of Rome, was arrested more than once, accidentally (maybe) killed a man, fled to Naples, entered and then was kicked out of the Knights of Malta, was pardoned and then got himself into MORE trouble. He painted the common people, in all their glory and imperfections, and elevated them to saintly status.
The novel is a fictional account of his life but the author, while taking obvious liberties with what was going on inside the genius' mind and writing in a very contemporary language, stayed true to the things we do know about the man and the artist. The story is narrated from multiple points of view inside the artist's mind - Caravaggio the genius artist, Michelangelo the man, and a sort of overarching "I." These voices act as Id, Ego and Superego, but could also function as an unholy Trinity of sorts. It took me a chapter or two to get settled into the rhythm but once you do, it's a roller coaster and so fun.
If you think that a novel about one of the Old Masters has to be dull and upstanding, think again. This story is a wild, hedonistic, possibly sacrilegious and very much entertaining ride through the life of an icon.
August 26, 2023
Has all the visceral, fleshy, carnal appeal of Caravaggio’s paintings. I read it in a fevered marathon, my only wish that I had my phone to look up the many paintings referenced throughout. The reading experience was like gorging myself on an endless bowl of pasta carbonara, with a generous side of meatballs and red sauce and bottles of fortified wine. Like Jim Harrison’s legendary “Really Big Lunch”, followed by a long, steamy shower and bath.
November 4, 2023
I very much enjoyed this book, think of it as Gore Vidal with grit. Eugenio sends you headlong through the alleys of Rome and into the complicated papal curia, as Caravaggio atones for his many misdeeds.
It is fast paced, pugnacious and salacious. At the same time revealing a delicate side as Volpe describes Caravaggio’s work in a way that makes you feel like you are standing there in front of the piece being described.
A refreshing take on a great story.
It is fast paced, pugnacious and salacious. At the same time revealing a delicate side as Volpe describes Caravaggio’s work in a way that makes you feel like you are standing there in front of the piece being described.
A refreshing take on a great story.
November 13, 2023
As an art history major that had to sit through endless hours of mediocre lectures, I, Caravaggio was a dream to read. Not only was Caravaggio’s work vividly demonstrated but so too was Volpe’s take on his esoteric lifestyle. The vanity, self obsession and absolute talent of Caravaggio (and Volpe ;) shines through in this phenomenal read.
November 4, 2023
Incredible, complex characters depicted in prose that flow from page to page bringing to life a time, place and a genius that are similar to our heroes and culture and very different. I was sad to have it end.
July 2, 2023
"I'm the city's biggest celebrity since Peter and Paul came to evangelize. My pictures are better than their stories. More nudity. More violence. More justice."
I am taking a breather after my third reading of "I, Caravaggio" (and before my fourth--- I think I will just continuously reread this masterpiece) to unequivocally tell you all to get this book, immerse yourself in the ecclesiastical spirit of Rome, the grit of Naples and the martial stomp of Malta, and, most importantly, to enter the mind and soul of one of the greatest painters, Caravaggio.
And what a mind it is! Eugenio Volpe has finally made sense of the disparate natures of the tortured and inventive man who remade painting and yet became one of the most haunted and hunted individuals of his age. To do this, Volpe has rendered three great characters in one mind: the hotheaded hick, Michelangelo, the inspired genius, Caravaggio, and the intermediary "I" who manages to keep the two alive and productive.
"I, Caravaggio" is as swashbuckling, chaotic, irreverent and sensual as a Baroque painting. The anchor at the heart of all this tumult and mayhem is Volpe's splendid and respectful reading of the paintings themselves. The models populate the story and the scenes pop up at all the right times, interpreted always through three sets of eyes. During a particularly deadly melee: "Splayed like my converted Paul, Ranuccio reaches for me. He wants me to stop his bleeding. Caravaggio wants to help him. If Ranuccio dies, he can kiss St. Peter's goodbye. But Michelangelo meant to kill him. He still means to."
It's amazing stuff that includes the cast of brutish or artistic or ecclesiastical personages from history: his protege Cecco da Caravaggio; artists Mario Minniti and Orazio Gentileschi; Cardinal Sciopio Borghese and Fra Ippolito Malaspina; Caravaggio's landlady, patrons, famous models and lovers; and those who pursued his life.
There's a lovely connection between Caravaggio, his early patron Cardinal del Monte and his forever protectress, Marchessa Constanza Colonna. The Marchessa always saves Caravaggio's neck while rendering tough love. "You're loveable when you are suffering. It's why we've underpaid you all these years...," she says to the great painter.
As someone who has spent 40 years seeing nearly every extant Caravaggio painting, this book is a revelation and a treasure to me, a new way to experience Caravaggio---and the experience is every bit as shocking, raw, revolutionary and brilliant as a real Caravaggio masterpiece.
I am taking a breather after my third reading of "I, Caravaggio" (and before my fourth--- I think I will just continuously reread this masterpiece) to unequivocally tell you all to get this book, immerse yourself in the ecclesiastical spirit of Rome, the grit of Naples and the martial stomp of Malta, and, most importantly, to enter the mind and soul of one of the greatest painters, Caravaggio.
And what a mind it is! Eugenio Volpe has finally made sense of the disparate natures of the tortured and inventive man who remade painting and yet became one of the most haunted and hunted individuals of his age. To do this, Volpe has rendered three great characters in one mind: the hotheaded hick, Michelangelo, the inspired genius, Caravaggio, and the intermediary "I" who manages to keep the two alive and productive.
"I, Caravaggio" is as swashbuckling, chaotic, irreverent and sensual as a Baroque painting. The anchor at the heart of all this tumult and mayhem is Volpe's splendid and respectful reading of the paintings themselves. The models populate the story and the scenes pop up at all the right times, interpreted always through three sets of eyes. During a particularly deadly melee: "Splayed like my converted Paul, Ranuccio reaches for me. He wants me to stop his bleeding. Caravaggio wants to help him. If Ranuccio dies, he can kiss St. Peter's goodbye. But Michelangelo meant to kill him. He still means to."
It's amazing stuff that includes the cast of brutish or artistic or ecclesiastical personages from history: his protege Cecco da Caravaggio; artists Mario Minniti and Orazio Gentileschi; Cardinal Sciopio Borghese and Fra Ippolito Malaspina; Caravaggio's landlady, patrons, famous models and lovers; and those who pursued his life.
There's a lovely connection between Caravaggio, his early patron Cardinal del Monte and his forever protectress, Marchessa Constanza Colonna. The Marchessa always saves Caravaggio's neck while rendering tough love. "You're loveable when you are suffering. It's why we've underpaid you all these years...," she says to the great painter.
As someone who has spent 40 years seeing nearly every extant Caravaggio painting, this book is a revelation and a treasure to me, a new way to experience Caravaggio---and the experience is every bit as shocking, raw, revolutionary and brilliant as a real Caravaggio masterpiece.
November 2, 2023
I, Caravaggio is an accurate depiction of the human condition. Both the artist in real life and in this novel behaved in ways that would be seen as dangerous and likely to result in spiritual bankruptcy. Only there's no "lesson", because there is no way to live life that guarantees spiritual bankruptcy or fulfillment.
Caravaggio's only guide seems to be from Bruno, who says: “Make yourself grow to a greatness beyond measure, free yourself from the body, raise yourself above all time, become eternity, and then you will understand God."
It's eye-opening to follow the narrator's thoughts, intuitions and actions that are guided by this idea, which is ultimately a suicide mission, and watch how it unfolds. Sex, violence, inhumanity. It's gothic but portrayed by a writer who is very much living in 2023 and the language reflects that, so it doesn't have the formality of a period piece.
Caravaggio's only guide seems to be from Bruno, who says: “Make yourself grow to a greatness beyond measure, free yourself from the body, raise yourself above all time, become eternity, and then you will understand God."
It's eye-opening to follow the narrator's thoughts, intuitions and actions that are guided by this idea, which is ultimately a suicide mission, and watch how it unfolds. Sex, violence, inhumanity. It's gothic but portrayed by a writer who is very much living in 2023 and the language reflects that, so it doesn't have the formality of a period piece.
September 6, 2023
I found this book an exciting and provocative read. A great depiction of a tortured genius living during a transitional time where the grip of church dogma and the laws of the social institutions conflicted, conjoined and challenged each other, region to region and soul to soul. Where the ability of these forces to suppress someone's sexuality and individuality was losing its grip, causing a liberating psychological warfare within the mind of this complex man who could claim no single personality, creating three. It forces Caravaggio to battle his selves as he also battles his existence.
I found the author telling his narrative with the same intensity that Caravaggio lives it and with the same conflict of personalties as that of the characters that haunt him, both within and without.
I found the author telling his narrative with the same intensity that Caravaggio lives it and with the same conflict of personalties as that of the characters that haunt him, both within and without.
January 23, 2024
I discovered this book to be a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. It offers a captivating portrayal of a tortured genius navigating a transformative era marked by the clash and intertwining of church dogma and societal laws. This conflict unfolds across regions and souls, where the power of these forces to suppress one's sexuality and individuality is gradually diminishing. This liberation triggers a psychological warfare within the mind of the complex protagonist, Caravaggio, who finds himself unable to claim a single personality, leading to the creation of three distinct selves. As Caravaggio grapples with his inner conflicts, he simultaneously confronts the challenges of his existence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2024
As an Art History major I found this book very insightful, interesting, and informative. I greatly enjoyed the book due to its significance in creating a well-rounded picture on who Caravaggio is. Caravaggio an Italian Baroque painter that is known for his very theatrical, dark, and rich paintings. Furthermore, I would suggest giving “I, Caravaggio” a read even if you aren’t an Art History major!
May 20, 2023
"My boy and girl have corralled a cuttlefish in a sunrise tidepool. Three creatures struggling for life, splashing in cool hues of skin and sea, dry brushing a line between what is known and what is seen. I've reconciled the two ontologies. I know who I am. I'm the computation itself. I'm the cuttlefish."
September 6, 2023
This book is original, wild, funny, and like going on a totally engaging adventure with this famous and controversial artist, as well as other fascinating characters- lots of fun to read. Eugenio is a great writer- both articulate and engaging! Hard to put down! Like going to a party you don’t want to leave! Don’t miss this book- an amazing reading experience!
November 1, 2023
"I, Caravaggio" is a mesmerizing journey into the life of the underrated, legendary, and mysterious artist. This book meticulously portrays Caravaggio's struggles, passions, and brilliant artistry. The characters come to life, and the prose is pure magic. A must-read for art and history, and art enthusiasts. I couldn't put it down– a DEFINITE five-star gem!
January 23, 2024
I very much enjoyed this book, I could not put it down. The characters where incredible, complex and depicted in a way that flowed from page to page bringing to life a time, place and a genius that are similar to those we look up to and the culture we currently have. This author is incredibly talented cannot wait y to see what he does next.
- Fernanda
- Fernanda
January 24, 2024
Volpe skillfully navigates the challenges of presenting Caravaggio's life, from his troubled relationships to his daring artistic choices, without romanticizing or oversimplifying the complexities of the man behind the masterpieces. The result is a nuanced and balanced portrayal that leaves a lasting impact.
December 7, 2025
I, Caravaggio is a fantastic, highly recommended read that brings the famous artist's chaotic life to vivid light. The book is described as inventive, funny, and exciting, offering a fresh, modern perspective on the historical events Rome. If you love history and genius character studies, this book is a great choice. I highly recommend immersing yourself in this wild, engaging story!
June 26, 2023
You have never read a novel like this one. Volpe creates a voice that is equal to the genius of his subject, while also making Caravaggio relevant--a hero of sorts for this cultural moment. It's fun, subversive, and punk...everything we've come to expect from Clash Books. I love this novel.
January 23, 2024
A flamboyant and exceptional look into the life of what I now consider the ultimate Neapolitan God. Each page. Like his paintings, I wish my hands were made with oil so I could more easily turn each page to continue my enthralled journey. Wonderful.
December 1, 2025
This is a really fun, fast read that pulls you straight into the chaotic life of a famous painter, Caravaggio. It’s colorful, engaging, and just a cool, lively take on an artist who lived life on the edge. A.A.
December 5, 2025
Reading this book, I truly felt immersed in the beauty of Rome and looking through Carravaggio's lens. From the eloquently described paintings to the vulgar yet hilarious jokes used, this read by Eugenio Volpe is sure to have you laughing, thinking, and appreciating craftsmanship.
June 26, 2023
Honestly, if I could have rated this book a six, I probably would have given it a seven.
January 23, 2024
Great book! I think everyone should read it!!!
January 23, 2024
The best book I have ever read, I highly recommend this book.
January 23, 2024
great book!
January 23, 2024
My favorite book right now. 1 of 1!
January 23, 2024
Amazing book, read it!
January 23, 2024
Really good book. If you like history, this is a great read. I found great interest in the history of Caravaggio and his artwork. Written with a good perspective.
January 23, 2024
Great book! I highly recommend.
January 23, 2024
WOW. This is a fantastic book about arguably the inventor of modern art. So accurate to the historic events while retaining modernity. Lovely book. Funny, exciting, inventive.
January 23, 2024
Very interesting, couldn’t take my eyes off this book ! Great diction fs.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews