Description Quote by Italo Calvino
““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.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Butterfly” from *Cosmicomics*, 1965
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.
