Calvino- Attention-Grabbing Phrases

Question #4

One of the most powerful moments in Italo Calvino’s essay “Why We Read the Classics” is where he relates three important definitions to his first sentence. Calvino opens with his first definition by saying, “The classics are those books about which you usually hear people saying, ‘I’m rereading’ not ‘I’m reading.” He goes on to explain the dishonesty that often accompanies this statement. This opening did not catch my attention or invite me to read more; in fact, I was slightly irritated by his flippancy toward those who have not read classic works. However, this irritation was compensated for by his beautifully worded fourth definition that relates perfectly with the first sentence.

Before Calvino launches into these three consecutive definitions, he transitions with the sentence “Whether one uses the verb ‘to read’ or ‘to reread’ is not really so important.” This phrase, although it is not close to the end of the essay, is one of the more powerful moments in the piece. It is immediately followed with his fourth definition: “A classic is a book that with each rereading offers as much of a sense of discovery as the first reading.” With just a few words Calvino alleviates my irritation, by speaking great truth.  A true classic is one that contains such deep meaning and complexity that it presents itself as a new book every time someone picks it up.

Calvino, Italo. "Why Read the Classics." Lecture.