The Fiances (1963)

Anna Canzi: Liliana

Photos 

Quotes 

• Liliana : [narrating from a letter written to Giovanni]  I don't go dancing anymore. I don't want to go to the Speranza and see all our friends. I don't want them asking about you with those insinuating smiles - you know how people are. I'd be embarrassed. We have so many memories from that place. You could say that's where we met, when I used to accompany my older sister there. I was 15 or 16, remember? You were just back from the military. I've never told you this, but the first time you asked me to dance, I said no because I didn't know how. I had my girlfriends teach me at home and every night after that, I hoped you would ask me again. How many memories since then?

• Liliana : [narrating from a letter written to Giovanni]  You know, Giovanni, perhaps your trip was good for us both. I think the distance helped us understand a lot of things. We've been sweethearts for so long. So many years. More than sweethearts - you know what I mean - but we've never really spoken the way two lovers should. We each kept our thoughts to ourselves and were content just being together. But perhaps our being together was becoming a mere habit. Perhaps we didn't realize we were each still alone.

• Liliana : [narrating from a letter written to Giovanni]  I received your postcard and your letter. I hesitated to write back. I wasn't sure you wanted me to. When I received your letter, I got scared. I wanted to open it right away, but I couldn't work up the courage. I felt excited and happy running up the stairs. But then suddenly that happiness frightened me. I was afraid. I don't know why. A thousand thoughts raced through my mind, most of them disturbing. I even thought this might be your last letter. I admit I was afraid. I lost faith and hope as well.