Il Posto

Domenico forgoes the latter part of his education because his family has chosen his younger brother to continue studying. He decides to pursue employment at a big city corporation to support the family. This marks the start of his formal career path rather than further schooling.

He faces a battery of tests, physical screenings, and interviews as part of the recruitment process. The challenge proves demanding, but he presses on for a chance at a better future. The experience sets the tone for his initial place within the company.

During a brief respite from the testing, he meets Antonietta at a local cafe and the two share a shy conversation about their ambitions. Domenico feels a growing attraction as their paths briefly cross. The encounter hints at a potential personal connection amid the professional search.

After the hiring results come in, Domenico and Antonietta discover they have landed in different departments, forcing them apart. The separation underscores the constraints of workplace organization. Their early bond is thus short-lived by the structure of the company.

A superior informs him that, although he passed the tests, no clerical positions are available. He agrees to take a job as a messenger to begin his career in the company. This forced entry into the workforce sets the scene for his daily routine.

Sartori, who works next to the accountants’ office, briefs Domenico on his duties and shows him the ropes of the messengering role. This introduction marks his first real exposure to the office culture. It also connects him to the accounting team he will serve.

Seeking Antonietta, Domenico spots her leaving the building with two other young men. He hesitates and does not approach, leaving the moment unresolved. The distance between them grows as their paths diverge further.

Later, during his errands, he bumps into Antonietta again, and she invites him to join a New Year's Eve party for the workers. He decides to attend, hoping to reconnect with her in a social setting. The invitation offers a chance for personal connection outside strictly professional life.

Arriving at the party, he finds Antonietta absent and sits with an older couple instead. He watches the other guests dancing, gradually warming to the festive mood. When an older woman invites him to dance, he accepts and begins to participate more freely.

The night culminates in a simple, free dance in which all the guests participate. Domenico is drawn into the moment and experiences a sense of belonging he rarely feels at work. The communal celebration offers a rare emotional lift amid his routine duties.

Back at work, Domenico is offered the desk of the recently deceased Portioli in the accountants’ department. However, the older staff quickly move up in rank, forcing him to take a dimly lit desk in the last row. The reshuffle highlights the competitive and impersonal nature of corporate life.