Books Quote by Italo Calvino
““But Ludmilla is always at least one step ahead of you. “I like to know that book exists that I will still be able to read…” she says, sure that existent objects, concrete albeit unknown, must correspond to the strength of her desire. How can you keep up with her, this woman who is always reading another book besides the one before her eyes, a book that does not yet exist, but which, since she wants it, cannot fail to exist?””
About This Quote
Source Book: Invisible Cities, Italo Calvino, 1972
The passage explores a character who constantly anticipates future possibilities, turning desire into a self‑fulfilling reality.
In simple terms: Desire can make imagined things feel real.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate proactive imagination.
Themes
imagination
anticipation
desire
creativity
Mood
curious
inspired
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- personal goal setting
- innovation
- storytelling
Key Concepts
possibility thinking
future orientation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you turn desire into action?
- What limits arise when imagination outpaces resources?
A Different Perspective
Desire alone may not guarantee actual creation without effort.
