Five Things You Can Learn From Reading Primo Levi

We are what we are: each one of us, even the peasant, even the most modest artisan, is a researcher, has always been that.—Primo Levi

It goes without saying, whether you agree with his point of view or not, Primo Levi has had a truly remarkable journey. For those whom are unfamiliar with either his life or his work, here is a quick tutorial. Levi was arrested for being an anti-fascist during World War II, and was eventually sent to the Auschwitz death camp.

After surviving what can only be described as truly horrific conditions, Primo Levi went on to become a successful chemist. Though passionate about science, his passion for writing took hold. He eventually dedicated his life to writing. One of Levi’s most notable works is entitled, Survival in Auschwitz, a memoir of his time in the notorious concentration camp. Primo Levi died in 1987.

On a personal note, I do not agree with many of Primo Levi’s political positions; however, this does not mean there is nothing to be gained from experiencing his writing. For what Levi and I both have in common is the idea that writing is more than an ability to turn a phrase, but more the sanctity in taking and forwarding a perspective.

Be Observant

The world is full of so many sources of wonderment, of things we like and dislike; but the importance lies in our willingness to see the world, breathe it in, and solidify our place in it. John Muir said, “Most people are on the world, not in it.” Levi understood the relevance of keeping our eyes open, expressing what we see, and making life not just what we do, but what we want.

No doubt such an idea gave at least a glimmer of hope to those in Auschwitz during times in their lives where any hope came at a high premium. And luckily for Levi, unlike so many, he was blessed with life beyond such an evil place and the appreciation of it was so self-evident in his work.

Life is Education

Levi typifies the concept that life, in all its forms, is a learning experience. Yes, we can learn many things from books, as certainly Levi has done, but how we interpret the world around us provides an education for ourselves to grow as human souls, enhancing our fortitude and potential. For good or for bad, our greatest learning experiences are often outside the classroom. In school we can get an education, but only in life can we employ it.

The plethora of topics Primo Levi wrote about, from politics, art, poetry, nature and so on, showed his love of knowledge not just for material gain, but for the ethereal connection we have with the world around us. For example, a few times I’ve attended wine tastings. I am nowhere close to being a connoisseur, but learning about regional differences between them, variances in production, aging, and other tidbits of information makes me thankful for the opportunity to learn something I might not otherwise have considered reading about on my own.

In this sense, though our viewpoints may differ, I feel a strong connection to Levi in this way. For my own end, the acquisition of knowledge takes on a sacred form. It is a cherished gift, which very often goes unappreciated and underutilized.

If You Want to Be Heard, Speak!

As I mentioned before, if Primo Levi and I were sitting together in a bar or café we would likely disagree on a great many things, historically, politically, and maybe even spiritually. But despite our differing positions, I would always listen. Some express themselves through writing, others through art, and still others by speech. Yet it if Levi’s manner of conveying a message personally was anywhere close to his writing, it is done so in way which is both constructive and sensible.

To take from this there is only one fundamental truth. The only way to have your voice heard is to speak. And more to this point, it is not only what you say, but how you say it. Whether others agree or disagree, manner and intent make all the difference in being heard or being dismissed, but fear of fruitful and concise expression should never be a consideration.

Be Strong

Even though several of Primo Levi’s short stories may have seemed a bit silly in there subject matter, always present was his strength of conviction, and his philosophy and worldviews came clear. Strength comes in a variety of forms, but the importance is finding the one which suits us best.

One of my biggest personal regrets was coming an inch away from serving in the army, then backing away. At the time I had my reasons for doing so and perhaps I was right for choosing not to, but I must confess it forever left me with an emptiness that I did not serve my country and do my part in defending it. However, if I did gain from the experience, or lack thereof, I’ve learned to further appreciate those who do. And if I was to encapsulate the entirety of the situation, I gained a personal evaluation of strength.

Maybe I was not strong enough to serve in the military, but I try to exhibit strength in other forms now through my writing. From reading Primo Levi I try to take the same level of inspiration in regards to his strength to stay true to his soul; for his beliefs, even if they are apart from mine, they were always meant for the betterment of the human spirit.

Do What You Love

It has taken me some time to get my writing out there for people to see, read, and hopefully enjoy. I am not quite where I want to be, but with some luck and determination I will get there. Primo Levi left a successful career as a chemist to become a writer, which is a risky maneuver by most accounts, but his willingness to do it inspires me deeply.

Others had the same determination; Guy Maupassant, Emily Dickinson, and U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle exhibited similar levels of commitment towards their goals. You may have others you look towards for inspiration, but it was John F. Kennedy who said, “Those who dare to fail miserably will achieve greatly.” Of course, Primo Levi’s path may not be for everyone, but the lesson to be learned is to follow your heart and give it no boundaries. Anything you love to do and is worth doing will take everything you can put into it and more.