Cesare Pavese

I was happy enough; I knew that during the night the whole city might go up in flames and all its people be killed, but the ravines, houses, and footpaths would wake in the morning calm and unchanged.

Cesare Pavese

If it were possible to have a life absolutely free from every feeling of sin, what a terrifying vacuum it would be.

Cesare Pavese

In general, the man who is readily disposed to sacrifice himself is one who does not know how else to give meaning to his life. The profession of enthusiasm is the most sickening of all insincerities.

Cesare Pavese

It had to happen to you, to concentrate your whole life on one point, and then discover that you can do anything except live at that point.

Cesare Pavese

Life is pain and the enjoyment of love is an anesthetic.

Cesare Pavese

Life without smoking is like the smoke without the roast.

Cesare Pavese

Literature is a defense against the attacks of life. It says to life: You can’t deceive me. I know your habits, foresee and enjoy watching all your reactions, and steal your secret by involving you in cunning obstructions that halt your normal flow.

Cesare Pavese

Love has the faculty of making two lovers seem naked, not in each other’s sight, but in their own.

Cesare Pavese

Love is the cheapest of religions.

Cesare Pavese

Many men on the point of an edifying death would be furious if they were suddenly restored to health.

Cesare Pavese