Midcareer Writing is Federico Sargentone’s debut book: a reflective exploration of identity, youth, and cultural narratives. They manifest in various expressions and consumer choices, perpetuating a generational mythology that fuels industries—from fashion, art, and music to media and economics— that continually mine youth culture for economic gain, recycling trends and identities into commodities.

IF YOU BUY INTO IT YOU ARE PART OF IT

In this collection of selected essays, including both published and original material, the author delves into historical phenomena such as 'Tulipmania' as allegories for the excesses and speculative bubbles of modern consumer culture or touches on the concept of 'ambient' aesthetics, a pervasive influence in the digital age where everything from music to fashion prioritises atmosphere over explicit structure or narrative.

AURA IS THE ULTIMATE BRANDING OF OUR GENERATION

The Milan-based writer argues that immersive environments and moods replace traditional artistic expression as markers of cultural relevance. Further, he criticises the romanticised image of the writer and intellectual and emphasises the role of 'street intellectuals' - thus organising a virtual reunion between Antonio Gramsci, Dr. Spock, Marshall McLuhan, and Tupac Shakur. And more…

A NEW WAY FOR THE OLD GAME!

Midcareer Writing offers a critique of how society constructs, commodifies and ultimately consumes cultural identities, suggesting that each generation, while unique, is inextricably linked to broader economic and cultural systems. 
Including a Bonus Track. Sorry and thank you! 

Federico Sargentone is a writer and editor based in Milan. His cultural criticism explores the dichotomies and tensions that animate the mass-niche divide, decoding stylistic codes and languages informing micro and macro trends alike. Believing that the role of the writer can be expanded and recontextualized beyond traditional structures, his commercial work emphasises a culturally grounded approach to branded projects across creative direction, brand strategy, and trend research.