Dear Editor,

I'm speaking on the sidelines of the annoying controversy triggered by the minority city councilor, and left, (a Verona, n.d.r.) Michele Bertucco.

This advisor, having assigned himself the role of thought policeman and censor according to the narrow canons of political correctness, stigmatizes the proposal of the city councilor Andrea Bacciga to name a street in our city after the artist and philosopher Julius Evola.

It is useful to remember this gentleman as authoritative protagonists of the cultural debate, from the left, and not only that, yesterday and today have, albeit in a different capacity, appreciated the figure of Evola. Among others, in no particular order: Cesare Zavattini, Fellini, Lucio Dalla, Roberto Saviano, Massimo Cacciari, Franco Volpi, Antonio Gnoli and Giuseppe Sinopoli.

As for the alleged Evolian racism, the scholar of Jewish origin Renzo De Felice clarified that there was no anti-Semitic hatred or fanaticism in Evola, but dignified coherence.

This is to limit ourselves to a few hints.

E’ it is appropriate to remind Bertucco that it already exists in Verona, among others, Via Gramsci, named after the communist philosopher, which, in a passage from one of his well-known works, had to write: “The Church is an even more implacable Shylock than Shakespeare's Shylock: it will want its pound of flesh even at the cost of bleeding its victim and with tenacity, continually changing his methods, will tend to reach its maximum program”.

Gramsci also seems to embrace the stereotypes widespread about Jews in the period in which Shakespeare lived, and manifests violently anti-Catholic feelings and beliefs in this writing.

It does not appear that Bertucco asked for the removal of Shakespeare's bust from the doors of Piazza Brà.

For now, it does not even appear that he has asked to change the name of Via Gramsci.

Curiosity: Gramsci converted to Catholicism on his deathbed. Evola no.

Naturally we hope Bertucco will also convert.

But the approach to the Faith begins with demonstrating one's good faith, even towards opponents, although very distant and different in terms of ideas.

Bertucco has the opportunity to express it, recognizing, like others, like Evola deserves the naming of a street, even in our city.

We know from personal experience how difficult it is.

We also know that councilor Bertucco is not afraid of difficulties.

Now he has an excellent opportunity to prove it.