In Italo Calvino's "Invisible Cities," the author draws a parallel between cities and dreams, suggesting both are constructs of human imagination filled with desires and fears. He posits that every city, much like a dream, embodies not just aspirations but also hidden anxieties which shape their essence. The complexities of urban life reflect these inner workings, presenting a tapestry where every element has deeper meanings and implications.

Calvino emphasizes that the nature of cities is often enigmatic; their narratives can be nonsensical, and their appearances may be misleading. This concealment of truth beneath layers of symbolism prompts readers to recognize that the true essence of a city is found beyond its surface. The exploration of cities, therefore, becomes an introspective journey into human emotions and psychological landscapes.