Numbers in the Dark by Italo Calvino (Penguin Modern Classics)

Description

“Numbers in the Dark” is a collection of short stories by the Italian author Italo Calvino. The book was published posthumously in 1995, two years after Calvino’s death. It brings together previously unpublished stories, fables, and narrative experiments that span Calvino’s entire career.

The stories in “Numbers in the Dark” cover a wide range of themes, styles, and genres. Calvino was known for his versatility and innovative approach to storytelling, and this collection showcases his creativity and literary prowess. The narratives often blend elements of fantasy, allegory, and humor, reflecting Calvino’s fascination with the complexities of human existence and the imaginative possibilities of literature.

Some of the stories in the collection are brief and concise, while others are more elaborate and intricate. Calvino’s narrative style is characterized by a playful and intellectual approach, and his works often explore philosophical questions and existential themes.

While “Numbers in the Dark” may not be as well-known as some of Calvino’s other works, such as “Invisible Cities” or “If on a winter’s night a traveler,” it provides readers with a valuable glimpse into the breadth of Calvino’s literary imagination. The stories in this collection invite readers to engage with Calvino’s unique narrative world and appreciate the artistry of one of Italy’s most celebrated literary figures.