I live in my house as I live inside my skin: I know more beautiful, more ample, more sturdy and more picturesque skins: but it would seem to me unnatural to exchange them for mine.

Meaning of the quote

This quote compares the person's house to their own skin. The person says that while they know of other houses or 'skins' that may be more beautiful, larger, or stronger, it would feel unnatural for them to switch and live in those other houses or 'skins' instead of their own. The quote suggests that the person feels a strong connection and comfort with their own home and body, and doesn't want to exchange them for something different, even if it might be better in some ways.

About Primo Levi

Primo Levi was a Jewish-Italian chemist, writer, and Holocaust survivor. He is best known for his autobiographical accounts, including the acclaimed book “If This Is a Man” about his time in the Auschwitz concentration camp. Levi’s life and work have had a lasting impact on literature and our understanding of the Holocaust.

More about the author