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To write, for example, a crime that is horrible but which…

“To write, for example, a crime that is horrible but which somehow 'resembles' the butterfly, which would be light and fine like the butterfly. I could also describe the butterfly, but bearing in mind the horrible scene of a crime, so that the butterfly would become something frightful.” quote by Italo Calvino
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““To write, for example, a crime that is horrible but which somehow 'resembles' the butterfly, which would be light and fine like the butterfly. I could also describe the butterfly, but bearing in mind the horrible scene of a crime, so that the butterfly would become something frightful.””

Italo Calvino

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He compares a crime to a delicate butterfly, showing how beauty can mask horror.

In simple terms: Beauty can hide terrible truths.

Key Takeaway

Look beyond appearances.

Themes

perception duality beauty danger

Mood

thoughtful cautionary

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • crime investigation
  • art criticism
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

metaphor contrasting imagery

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden horrors might you be overlooking?
  • How can you balance appreciation and vigilance?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on beauty may cause denial of danger.

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