Here, Calvino captures the overwhelming allure and intimidation of the literary world. The personification of unread books 'frowning' and forming a 'thick barricade' humorously illustrates the guilt and pressure avid readers often feel when confronted with the vast expanse of literature they have yet to explore. This vivid imagery serves as a reflection on the endless pursuit of knowledge and the realization that one lifetime may not suffice to read every book that calls out to us. It poses an implicit question: How does one choose among so many voices vying for attention?