On July 7, 1899, D'Annunzio wrote to his editor Treves about a long and complex lyrical work he was developing.
D'Annunzio began to write poetry again after an extended hiatus (his last lyrical work, Poema paradisiaco was dated 1893), during which he was leading an eventful life between journeys, political experiences and the newly established sentimental bond with actress Eleonora Duse.