Finding Beauty in the Ordinary

            After reading just one chapter of Mr. Palomer by Italo Calvino, it is easy to see Mr. Palomer pays close attention to the world around him and he finds beauty and interest in the ordinary. Mr. Palomer’s description of the moon takes place in a time of day when the moon is barely visible and harder to distinguish. The chapter starts off by Mr. Palomer reflecting, “Nobody looks at the moon in the afternoon, and this is the moment when it would most require our attention…” (34). Mr. Palomer recognizes the moon, as a permanent landmark in the sky, is overlooked and especially during the day when it can barely be seen. Taking the time to consider its meaning and beauty is not something many people make time for in their day. Mr. Palomer observes, “The moon is the most changeable body in the visible universe, and the most regular in its complicated habits: it never fails to show up for an appointment…” (36). The lesson Mr. Palomer is trying to communicate is people should make time to observe the ordinary parts of life that can be overlooked. Beauty and significance can be found in the world when time is set aside for observation. 

Comment on Ali's post:

I think your comment about the moon not existing if we do not acknowledge it is interesting. It reminds me of the phrase, "if a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?". Do we need to acknowledge everyday objects to remind ourselves they exist?

Comment of Brooke's post:

Mr. Palomer being a 'selfish' observer is an interesting observation I did not think of! I like the twist your interpretation adds to the text, that maybe Mr.Palomer is not such an innocent observer after all.