Meaning: The quote by Salvatore Quasimodo reflects the author's awareness of the changing landscape of his readership. Quasimodo was an Italian poet and novelist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1959. His quote suggests a shift in his audience from being predominantly "men of letters" to a broader and more diverse readership. This change in readership reflects the evolving cultural and social dynamics of his time.

During the period when Quasimodo's readers were primarily "men of letters," it is likely that his works were appreciated and critiqued within literary circles comprised of scholars, poets, and intellectuals. These individuals were likely well-versed in literary traditions and could engage with the complexities of Quasimodo's poetic language and themes. The term "men of letters" historically refers to individuals who are knowledgeable and accomplished in literature and the arts, often with a focus on literary criticism and scholarship.

As Quasimodo's quote suggests, he recognized the need for his poetry to reach a wider audience beyond the confines of the traditional literary elite. The shift in readership indicates a desire for his work to resonate with a more diverse and inclusive audience. This recognition of the broader readership waiting to engage with his poetry speaks to Quasimodo's desire for his art to be accessible and meaningful to a wider spectrum of society.

The evolution of Quasimodo's readership may also be indicative of broader societal changes in the mid-20th century. This period saw significant shifts in cultural norms, political ideologies, and technological advancements that influenced the ways in which literature and art were consumed and appreciated. The emergence of new forms of media and communication likely contributed to the expansion of Quasimodo's potential audience beyond the traditional literary circles.

It is important to note that Quasimodo's acknowledgement of a changing readership does not diminish the value of his existing audience of "men of letters." Rather, it reflects an understanding of the dynamic nature of artistic expression and the desire for creative works to transcend boundaries and connect with diverse audiences. Quasimodo's willingness to embrace a broader readership demonstrates a commitment to sharing his poetic vision with a wider community, inviting new perspectives and interpretations of his work.

In conclusion, Salvatore Quasimodo's quote encapsulates his recognition of the evolving nature of his readership. It reflects a desire to reach beyond the traditional literary elite and engage with a more diverse and inclusive audience. This acknowledgment of a broader readership demonstrates Quasimodo's commitment to the accessibility and relevance of his poetry in the changing cultural landscape of his time.