A factotum can be a completely trusted person who can represent another.
The etymological origin of factotum is found in medieval Latin. The term refers to an individual who enjoys the complete trust of another subject, even acting on their behalf.
The person who is in charge of all the tasks and obligations on a site is also known as a factotum. Another use of the concept refers to one that provides a multiplicity of services .
Some examples
This term is not in common use, so some examples are necessary to see it in context and thus understand the nuances of its meaning: “The renowned doctor established himself as the president's factotum in the fight against the pandemic,” “The factotum of the agreement between the player and the club was the coach, who spoke with both parties to resolve the conflict" , "In the government they consider that the left-wing leader is the factotum of the movement that seeks to generate a change of regime."
The first example talks about a highly prestigious doctor who, in the middle of a pandemic, was chosen as a trusted person by the president of his country to find a cure. The second sentence shows us a slightly different use: the coach also enjoys the full trust of the other two parties , but acts as a mediator between them, that is, he expresses himself on behalf of both to reach an agreement and resolve a problem.
Finally, the third example indicates that for the government there is a factotum who intends to change the regime, the leftist leader. In this case, the meaning is probably that of someone meddlesome , who takes charge of matters that are not his concern. In summary, only the first two examples use the term with a positive connotation.
Factotum, in short, is the one who is in a position to do everything or the one who assumes the responsibility of directing, controlling or carrying out something . The factotum enjoys power or influence in a certain area.
Book by Charles Bukowski
“Factótum” , on the other hand, is the title of the second novel published by Charles Bukowski , which appeared in 1975 . This book by the American author revolves around the experiences of Henry Chinaski , the writer's alter ego.
Bukowski 's work was made into a film in 2005 directed by Bent Hamer . The protagonists of the film are Matt Dillon , Marisa Tomei and Lili Taylor .
Long to the factotum
In the world of opera, one of the best known throughout the world is The Barber of Seville , written by the celebrated Gioacchino Rossini , one of the most brilliant and prolific Italian composers of the 19th century. The role of the barber was written for a rare string, which depending on the source may be noted as light baritone or baritenor , and his most famous aria is titled Largo al factotum , which can be translated as "Make way for the factotum."
The vocal prowess necessary to do justice to this piece is not typical of just any singer. Note that the technique must be impeccable not only to sing it correctly, but to avoid injuries to the voice . Two of its greatest difficulties are the ornate passages, with many notes at high speed, and the extension, since it requires the execution of low and high notes. Nor should we fail to mention the rapid articulation of words, especially syllables with the letter I , which is not easy at all.
Largo al factotum is a well-known aria from the opera The Barber of Seville .
Other uses
The Factótum Cultural Association , meanwhile, has edited the philosophy magazine “Factotum” since 2000 . It is a free access digital publication.
Factótum Ediciones , finally, is an Argentine publishing house founded in 2009 . Its creation was the responsibility of the writer and bookseller Andrea Stefanoni .