Nelle fauci di Crono. Un'odissea odontoiatrica di radici e subcoscienza

The article explores the symbolism of teeth in Local Anaesthetic by Günter Grass, Denti by Domenico Starnone, its cinematic adaptation by Gabriele Salvatores, With Teeth by Kristen Arnett, and White Teeth by Zadie Smith. Drawing upon the idea that teeth embody both physical decay and a profound psychological dimension, the study examines how dental imagery serves as a metaphor for the human condition—its innate, bestial nature, existen-tial fragility, and resistance to the passage of time. The article emphasizes the intersection of narrative prose and visual expression, exploring how the representation of teeth functions not only as a marker of personal identity but also as a reflection of larger historical and ge-nerational forces. Through a close reading of these works, the article frames the protagonist’s journey as an odyssey of catharsis, where confronting the symbolism of teeth allows characters to resist change and reflect on their roots. By positioning teeth as a metaphor for both continui-ty and fragility, the article highlights their role in symbolizing the tension between the preser-vation of self and the inevitability of decay. The work underscores the complex relationship between the body, time, and history, demonstrating how teeth, like roots, become a site of con-flict between survival, transformation, and the unconscious forces that shape individual and collective identities.