"Narrative art, the novel, from Murasaki to Proust, has produced great works of poetry"

Eugenio Montale's quote talks to the power of narrative art, specifically the unique, to develop works of terrific appeal and poignancy. He referrals two of the most renowned authors in the genre, Murasaki and Proust, to illustrate the effect that narrative art can have. Montale is suggesting that the book has the possible to create works of poetry, which is a testament to its power as an art form. He is likewise indicating that the novel has a long and recognized history, as evidenced by the two authors he mentions. Montale's quote is a reminder of the importance of narrative art and its capability to create works of charm and significance. It is a pointer that the novel has the prospective to move us and to produce masterpieces that will stand the test of time.