La Novella degli Stracci

"La Novella degli Stracci" is an Italian short story by Italo Calvino, part of his collection "Cosmicomics." It explores themes of transformation and renewal through a metaphorical narrative involving old rags ("stracci"). The story uses surreal imagery to examine how discarded or worn-out objects can undergo change, symbolizing hope and the potential for rebirth. Calvino’s poetic language and imaginative storytelling invite readers to reflect on the cycles of life and the possibility of finding new value in what is considered useless or forgotten.