The excerpt from Italo Calvino's "Invisible Cities" reflects on the nature of suffering and the human experience of living in what he metaphorically describes as an "inferno." It suggests that this inferno is not a distant or future occurrence but rather a reality we experience daily, shaped by our interactions and relationships with one another. Our collective existence can become a source of distress, highlighting the struggles inherent in human life.

Calvino presents two paths for coping with this suffering. The first option is to accept the inferno, allowing one to become so immersed in it that they disregard its presence. This path may seem easier but ultimately leads to a loss of awareness. The second option is more challenging and requires continuous effort: it involves identifying and nurturing the aspects of life that counteract the inferno. This entails recognizing the beauty and positivity that exist alongside hardship, thereby fostering resilience amidst suffering.