Meaning: This quote by Italo Calvino, an Italian journalist and writer, is a thought-provoking reflection on the relationship between enlightenment and the remnants of the past that linger within our living spaces. Calvino's words suggest that as our homes become more modern and enlightened, they paradoxically become more saturated with the ghosts of the past. This quote encapsulates the idea that the more we progress and evolve, the more we are haunted by the echoes of history and the ghosts of our own making.

The concept of "enlightened houses" can be interpreted as a metaphor for the advancement and sophistication of our living spaces. As we introduce modern technologies, sustainable designs, and efficient systems into our homes, we are creating environments that reflect our progress and enlightenment as a society. These enlightened houses are equipped with the latest innovations, designed for comfort, and often feature sleek, minimalist aesthetics that embody contemporary ideals.

However, Calvino's assertion that these enlightened houses "ooze ghosts" introduces a compelling contrast to the notion of progress and modernity. The image of walls oozing with ghosts evokes a sense of the past seeping into the present, suggesting that despite our efforts to move forward, the remnants of history continue to exert their influence within our domestic spaces. The ghosts that Calvino refers to could represent the memories, traditions, and legacies that are embedded in the very fabric of our homes, persisting despite our attempts to create new, enlightened environments.

This quote prompts us to consider the ways in which the past lingers within our homes, even as we strive to embrace the future. Our houses often bear the imprints of previous inhabitants, the marks of time, and the echoes of bygone eras. Whether it's the creaking of an old staircase, the architectural details that harken back to a different era, or the personal artifacts that carry the stories of those who came before us, our homes are repositories of history, both personal and collective.

Furthermore, the idea of "oozing ghosts" suggests that these remnants of the past are not static or dormant, but rather, they permeate our living spaces, manifesting as intangible presences that shape our experiences and perceptions. Just as the walls of our homes physically contain us, they also contain the echoes and imprints of the past, blurring the boundaries between the present and the history that dwells within our domestic realms.

Calvino's quote also invites us to contemplate the relationship between progress and nostalgia. While we strive to create enlightened, modern homes, we are simultaneously drawn to the nostalgia and sentimentality associated with the past. Our desire for comfort, familiarity, and a sense of rootedness often leads us to incorporate elements of the past into our contemporary living spaces, whether through vintage decor, architectural preservation, or the preservation of family heirlooms.

In conclusion, Italo Calvino's quote "The more enlightened our houses are, the more their walls ooze ghosts" encapsulates the complex interplay between progress and the enduring presence of the past within our living spaces. It challenges us to consider how our homes serve as both reflections of our contemporary ideals and vessels for the ghosts of history, creating a rich tapestry of experiences and influences that shape our daily lives.