Torre del Greco is ablaze for the eighth edition of the International Poetry Prize “Fratelli De Filippo”, an explosion of culture, art and a cry against war that attracted an enthusiastic crowd and guests from the world of entertainment. The event, called “Peace, love and poetry”, transformed a simple presentation into a real show of passion and provocations, with poems that shook the walls and music that challenged the general indifference.
### Familiar faces and sparks in the classroom
At the Istituto Comprensivo “Francesco D’Assisi,” the atmosphere was electric from the start, with Mayor Luigi Mennella kicking off the event and a celebrity lineup including actor Ernesto Mahieux, journalist and writer Stella Cervasio, guitarist Antonio Onorato, and singers Arianna Bottigliero and Leo Iezza. School principals Maria Aurilia, president of the jury, and Rosanna Ammirati oversaw the creative chaos, while teachers Teresa Civitella, Leonarda Di Meo, and psychologist Romeo Simonetti led the evening with an energy that spared no punches. Sponsored by local foundations and institutions, the event mixed praise and criticism, exposing the world of art without filters.
### Peace under attack with sharp verses and notes
At the heart of the event, **peace** was defended tooth and nail between fiery poems and musical interludes that made the air vibrate. **"Peace must become a modus vivendi"**, thundered the musician Antonio Onorato, closing with a sample of his repertoire that left the audience breathless. There was no lack of an emotional touch with the young poet Lorenzo Palumbo, a promising elementary school student who stole the scene, reminding us how unfair the world is towards the little ones.
### Animal rights awards and controversies in the spotlight
Stella Cervasio set the event alight with her book “Viva per miracolo”, telling the story of a dog who escaped unimaginable cruelty, and took a swipe at social hypocrisy. **”We are all animals, in the deepest and most dignified sense of the term”**, she attacked the author, pointing the finger at laws that favor hunters and widespread indifference. In an emotional tribute, the commitment of activist Grazia Raia, who passed away too soon, was remembered, while president Salvatore De Chiara announced dizzying ambitions for the award, with translations into English to conquer foreign countries. Among the award winners are actors such as Nunzia Schiano, Gianfelice Imparato and other emerging talents, as well as special recognitions for figures linked to the cultural world.
It was a very interesting event and brought many people together to discuss important issues. Poetry and music created a unique atmosphere, although there were some sobering criticisms.