A classic is a work which persists as a background noise even when a present that is totally incompatible with it holds sway.

Classics are books which, the more we think we know them through hearsay, the more original, unexpected, and innovative we find them when we actually read them.

Don't you ever get tired of reading?" she asked. "You could hardly be called good company! Don't you know that, with women, you're supposed to make conversation?" she added; her half smile was perhaps meant to be ironic, though to Amedeo, who at that moment would have paid anything rather than give up his novel, it seemed downright threatening.

Thoughtful lightness can make frivolity seem dull and heavy.

Without translation, I would be limited to the borders of my own country. The translator is my most important ally. He introduces me to the world.

An exotic birthplace on its own is not informative of anything.