Networks of Influence: Divagando 's Italian (and) American Literary Infrastructure

Abstract: This essay investigates the role of Divagando , an Italian-language magazine published in New York City from 1943 to 1963, in shaping modern Italian American identities. Amid post-war transnational cultural exchanges, Divagando 's blend of literary contributions, advertisements, and cultural commentary positioned it as a mediator between Italy and the United States for Italian-speaking Americans, simultaneously reinforcing and challenging prevailing cultural tropes. Special attention is given to Andre Luotto, the advertiser and founding editor whose vision was instrumental to the magazine's success. Using a methodological approach that combines Social Network Analysis and microhistory, the essay ultimately argues for the value of both distant and close readings of literary infrastructures to identify new transfers and patterns of influence.