Naples is one of Italy’s largest cities and the most densely populated. Known for its dynamic culture, unique dialect, and rich cultural as well as musical legacy, this former capital city is major cultural and historical touchstone for Southern Italian culture. Naples is especially a city that has long fascinated its inhabitants and visitors alike, often leaving both populations with contrasting experiences and understandings of the Southern Italian metropolis. Naples’ essence as a port city furthers its dynamic legacy, both serving as an important destination since its founding that led to the city’s deeply cosmopolitan makeup as well as the departure point for millions of Southern Italian emigrants. In this panel we will seek to explore how writers see Naples and what that means to understanding the city and its people.