ROME – They resemble one another – combative, outspoken, grumpy, liberal. For almost 40 years, their lives often intersected in areas of scientific research and civil struggle, and always in a profoundly secular spirit. And now that Marguerita Hack is no more, Minister for Foreign Affairs Emma Bonino, whom the deceased scientist had wanted as President of the Republic, remembers, and misses, her.
When did you meet?
«I don’t recall the date, but I also do not recall a political battle since 1976 in which she was not a constant presence».
A feminist ahead of her times?
«Yes, her feminism was located in a quest for excellence, in her decision to study abroad and to teach, but her private life bears witness to it as well, at a time – 70 years ago – when this was surely not easy for a woman».
She was a battle companion on radical issues concerning freedom of research and choice.
«Although she came from a position further to the left, I recall her commitment to our struggle, with the Coscioni Association, for example. She even became a promoter of the “Bonino for President” committee, which counted Arbore and Fendi among its ranks, as a demonstration of her freedom from party constraints».
Did she watch the world from Trieste?
«Yes, a distant world that was, for her, made up of galaxies but that in many ways was a metaphor for a better Italy, one not resigned to contemplating its belly-button and to squabbling without passion, ideas or understanding. An Italy that has to keep the telescope of its conscience pointed at the world in order to avoid cultural, even before economic, decline».
A woman of character?
«Grumpy, mean you could say, as all those with strong character are described. A free-minded, passionate, anti-conformist critic who rejected rituals, conventional gestures and ways of mediating meaning to make it inaccessible to everyday people».
An example for young people?
«Yes, the newer generations, who need to open up to a changing world, have a lot to learn from her».
