A three-part recollection of Vinicio Villani

Abstract

In this article the authors present a recollection of Vinicio Villani, a prominent Italian mathematician who recently passed away. The recollection takes the form of a dialogue between the two authors, who knew Prof. Villani at different times and in different roles, sharing facts and anecdotes that reveal the unmistakable personality of the late mathematician. During the dialogue a third voice is inserted, that of Graziano Gentili of the University of Florence, who adds his memories of his professional and human relationship with Villani. The authors have intended to show a human and friendly dimension, avoiding the enumeration of the numerous merits and of the important positions held by Vinicio Villani, which can easily be found elsewhere.