Arturo Bandini is a fictional character created by author John Fante in his semi-autobiographical novel, "Ask the Dust." Set in the 1930s, Bandini is a struggling Italian-American writer living in Los Angeles. His character embodies the challenges of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of success in a harsh environment. Throughout the novel, Bandini grapples with his dreams and personal relationships, particularly with Camilla Lopez, a waitress who becomes a significant figure in his life. The story explores themes of love, despair, and the complexities of the American experience, making Bandini a relatable and enduring character in American literature.