Italo Calvino introduces his essay with one simple sentence: “Let us begin by putting forward some definitions.” He then introduces each topic with one definition, which all define the term ‘classic’. Although Calvino does not give us much of an introduction he makes up for it with a four paragraph-long conclusion that ties together the whole essay.
In the concluding paragraphs of this essay, Calvino discusses what books we should keep in our ‘ideal library’, telling us that one half should contain books we have read and loved, and the other half should have the books we will one day hopefully read and some empty shelf space for new arrivals. He also criticizes his essay by saying that he wishes he would have referenced more Italian works of literature because “the classics help us understand who we are and the point we have reached.” Calvino also uses a quotation by Cioran in his conclusion, in which he says, “While the hemlock was being prepared, Socrates was learning a melody on the flute. ‘What use will that be to you?’ he was asked. ‘At least I will learn this melody before I die.’” By choosing this quote, he makes a good point that although there is really no purpose in reading the classics, it is better to have read them than not.
Calvino, Italo. "Why Read the Classics?" Why Read the Classics? London: Vintage, 2000. 5-8. Print.
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