Title: Cosmicomics
Author: Italo Calvino
First published January 1, 1965
153 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780156226004 (ISBN10: 0156226006)
Rating: 4.17
Overview
Italo Calvino’s Cosmicomics takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the evolution of the universe. Calvino uses mathematical formulae and simple cellular structures to create characters that frolic among galaxies, witness the birth of planets, and experience the transition from aquatic to terrestrial life.
His characters even have a love life and play games with hydrogen atoms. Calvino’s stories explore scientific concepts such as continuous creation and the transformation of matter while relating them to the everyday experiences of humanity.
With William Weaver’s award-winning translation, Cosmicomics is a delightful read that will leave you pondering the mysteries of the universe.
About the Author
Italo Calvino was an Italian writer and journalist, born in Cuba. He wrote a variety of short stories and novels, with some of his most famous works including the Our Ancestors trilogy (1952-1959), Cosmicomics collection of short stories (1965), Invisible Cities (1972), and If On a Winter’s Night a Traveler (1979).
Calvino’s writing style is unique and difficult to categorize. Some of his works have a fantastical and fairy tale-like quality to them, while others are more realistic and observational.
Some critics have described his writing as reflective and introspective, exploring themes of literature and the act of reading. Others have labeled his writing as magical realism or fables, while some simply consider it modern.
Calvino once wrote, “My writing is a game, a playing with combinations of letters, a literary amusement.”
Editoral Review
Cosmicomics by Italo Calvino, first published in 1965, is a collection of short stories that take readers on a cosmic journey through time and space. Calvino, an Italian journalist and writer, is known for his experimental style and blending of fiction with science and philosophy.
In Cosmicomics, Calvino explores the universe through the eyes of an unnamed narrator and his companion Qfwfq, who takes on various forms throughout the stories. The stories are told in a first-person narrative and are presented as Qfwfqs memories, allowing the reader to experience the universe in a surreal and unconventional way.
The stories in Cosmicomics are rich in themes and symbolism. Calvino touches on topics such as evolution, love, and the meaning of life through the lens of science fiction.
The stories are imaginative and whimsical, yet deeply philosophical. One standout story is The Distance of the Moon, which tells the story of the moons close proximity to the Earth in the distant past.
The story explores the relationship between the Earths inhabitants and the moons inhabitants, as well as the nature of love and longing. Calvinos writing is superb, with vivid descriptions and a lyrical quality throughout the collection.
Although the stories are at times abstract and complex, Calvinos writing makes them accessible and engaging. One potential limitation of Cosmicomics is that it may not appeal to readers who are not familiar with or curious about science fiction or philosophical literature.
However, for those who are interested in these genres, Cosmicomics has much to offer. Overall, Cosmicomics is a beautifully crafted and thought-provoking work that challenges readers to see the universe in a new light.
It is a must-read for fans of science fiction, philosophy, and experimental literature. Rating: 4.5/5
Criteria: Quality of writing, character development, pacing, plot structure, themes, cultural significance, and historical relevance.
