AUTHOR · STORYTELLER · CREATIVE PARTNER

The Art of Making Old Things New

By day, I’m an author and professor at Cornell University. What really excites me is discovering forgotten books and art, overlooked stories, and unexpected connections, then finding creative ways to bring them to life for new audiences.

Explore Projects & Collaborations →

Selected Stories & Projects

An ancient guide for modern readers

My books with Princeton University Press give overlooked Greek, Roman, and Renaissance voices a new identity and audience. From How to Drink and How to Tell a Joke to How to Speak Freely, the choice of material, title, framing, and visual presentation are all part of the creative work. Explore the books →

A forgotten play gets a second life

A long-lost Latin comedy, Joannes Burmeister’s Asinaria (1625), resurfaced after centuries. Its survival is a detective story about books, libraries, and the unpredictable afterlife of literature. Follow the discovery →

Rediscovering the Alps

My newest writing explores the people, landscapes, and traditions of the Alps, including the Vatican Latinist Carolus Egger and his journeys through Tyrol and the Dolomites. Read an Alpine story →

Creative Partnerships

I am interested in collaborating with founders, publishers, and heritage businesses who believe that a great story can reveal something extraordinary and enrich our lives. My contribution is discovering the idea, shaping its identity, and helping it reach a new audience—not running the logistics.

See my projects and ideas looking for partners →

Latest Book

How to Speak Freely: An Ancient Guide to Free Speech and Dissent · Princeton University Press · 2026

Writing, Speaking & Contact

I also write essays, give public talks, and direct Cornell’s Program on Freedom and Free Societies.

Writing · Talks & Media · About & CV

For creative partnerships and selected speaking inquiries, please get in touch at fontaine@cornell.edu.