...the people who move through the streets are all strangers. At each encounter, they imagine a thousand things about one another; meetings which could take place between them, conversations, surprises, caresses, bites. But no one greets anyone; eyes lock for a second, then dart away, seeking other eyes, never stopping...something runs among them, an exchange of glances like lines that connect one figure with another and draw arrows, stars, triangles, until all combinations are used up in a moment, and other characters come on to the scene...
The excerpt from Italo Calvino's "Invisible Cities" reflects the solitude and disconnect that often permeates urban life. As individuals navigate through the city, they are surrounded by strangers, each one filled with unspoken stories and imagined connections. In these fleeting moments, there is a dance of glances and silent communication, where people conjure possibilities of interaction and shared experiences, yet remain isolated in their silence. The potential for connection exists, yet is unfulfilled, highlighting the nuanced complexities of urban existence.
The imagery of eyes locking briefly before shifting away captures the transient nature of modern encounters. Each individual is like a constellation, briefly connected by glances and unexpressed thoughts, forming intricate patterns that disappear almost as quickly as they are formed. This dynamic illustrates how cities are populated with potential relationships that never materialize, suggesting both the vibrancy and isolation inherent in the act of living among many yet deeply interacting with few.
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