Andrea Zucconi

Michela Murgia (1972-2023) was a prominent Italian writer, playwright, and public figure from Sardinia. Her literary career began with "Il mondo deve sapere" (2006), a satirical work based on her blog about telemarketing exploitation. She gained significant recognition for her novel "Accabadora" (2009), which delved into themes of euthanasia and adoption in 1950s Sardinia, earning her several literary awards.

Murgia was also a vocal feminist and left-wing activist, engaging with public discourse on social and political issues. Her work often touched upon Sardinian culture and identity, as seen in "Viaggio in Sardegna" (2008). Beyond her novels, she authored plays, contributed to journalism with columns like "L'Antitaliana," and hosted radio programs. She publicly disclosed her terminal illness in May 2023.

Born in Cabras, Sardinia, Michela Murgia experienced a traditional Sardinian 'soul-child' adoption at age 18. She pursued theological studies and taught religious education, though she did not complete her formal theological education. Before dedicating herself to writing, Murgia held various jobs, including sales, fiscal operations, and administrative management. She was active in Catholic Action and considered herself a believer. Her connection to Sardinia was evident throughout her life and work, including a blog titled "Il Mio Sinis" that documented the Sardinian peninsula.

Murgia's literary debut, "Il mondo deve sapere" (2006), originated from a blog satirizing the exploitative practices of a telemarketing company. This work was adapted into a play and a film. Her novel "Accabadora" (2009) explored complex themes of euthanasia and adoption, earning critical acclaim and awards. She also published "Viaggio in Sardegna" (2008), a literary exploration of her home island. Murgia's prolific output included essays, pamphlets such as "L'ho uccisa perché l'amavo. Falso!" (2013) addressing feminicide, and the memoir "L'inferno è una buona memoria" (2018). Her work often engaged with societal issues, identity, and Sardinian culture.

As an active feminist and left-wing voice, Murgia frequently addressed contemporary social and political debates in Italy. She was a vocal advocate for euthanasia and LGBTQ+ rights. Her political engagement included supporting Sardinian independence movements and running as a candidate in regional elections. Murgia also contributed significantly to journalism, writing a column for "L'Espresso" and hosting radio programs. She was known for her sharp critiques of political stances, particularly regarding feminism and identity politics, famously challenging the notion that simply being a woman qualified one as a feminist.