This is the story of an Italian immigrant who,after living in America for thirty years where he created a family and a solid social position (due more to his wife than to himself), is called back to Italy because of an inheritance. The secret motive which impels Oliviero, the protagonist, to face the trip along with his entire family is much more important. He is troubled by a deep, personal crisis and hopes that a return to his roots,an immersion into the world athat saw his birth and his early youth will give him the strength to find himself and his equilibrium.