Meaning: This quote by Salvatore Quasimodo, a renowned Italian poet and Nobel Prize in Literature laureate, holds a profound reflection on the power of poetry and the contrast between the perspectives of poets and men of letters. In this quote, Quasimodo emphasizes the impact of a poet's words on the hearts of people, contrasting it with the belief of "absolute men of letters" who consider themselves as the only ones living in the real world.

Quasimodo's assertion about the striking force of a poet's word upon the hearts of all men reflects the belief that poetry possesses a unique ability to evoke deep emotions and resonate with individuals on a profound level. Through the use of language, imagery, and symbolism, poets have the capacity to capture the essence of human experiences and emotions, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

The quote also highlights a perceived disparity between poets and "absolute men of letters," suggesting that the latter group may be detached from the emotional and humanistic aspects of life. "Men of letters" typically refers to individuals who are literary scholars or intellectuals, often emphasizing the academic and theoretical aspects of literature. Quasimodo's juxtaposition of the impact of a poet's word with the perceived detachment of men of letters implies a contrast between emotional resonance and intellectual aloofness.

In the context of the quote, Quasimodo's portrayal of "absolute men of letters" as individuals who believe they alone live in the real world may indicate a sense of arrogance or detachment from the lived experiences and emotions that poets seek to capture and convey. It suggests a criticism of intellectual elitism and a call for a more holistic understanding of the human condition, one that encompasses both intellectual rigor and emotional depth.

Salvatore Quasimodo's own body of work reflects his commitment to exploring themes of human suffering, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. His poetry often delves into the complexities of existence, addressing universal truths and the timeless struggles of humanity. Through his evocative language and vivid imagery, Quasimodo invites readers to confront the depths of their own emotions and experiences, thereby embodying the sentiment expressed in the quote.

As a prominent figure in 20th-century Italian literature, Quasimodo's insights into the role of the poet and the power of language continue to resonate with readers and scholars alike. His recognition of the poet's ability to touch the hearts of people speaks to the enduring relevance of poetry as a medium for expressing the depths of human emotion and experience.

In conclusion, Salvatore Quasimodo's quote encapsulates the profound impact of a poet's word on the human heart and the contrast with the perceived detachment of "absolute men of letters." This reflection underscores the enduring power of poetry to connect with individuals on a deep, emotional level and challenges the notion of intellectual elitism that may overlook the essential human experiences captured by poets. Quasimodo's own contributions to literature further exemplify the enduring relevance of his insights, solidifying his legacy as a poet who understood and embraced the transformative potential of language and emotion.