"Everything can change, but not the language that we carry inside us, like a world more exclusive and final than one's mother’s womb"

The essence of this quote is that our internal language—our unique way of thinking, understanding, and expressing ourselves—is something incredibly personal and unchangeable. It’s like a core part of our identity, more intimate even than the place where we first began life: our mother's womb.

To understand why someone might say this, consider the historical context. It's a line from the writer Italo Calvino, reflecting on the idea that while everything around us may shift and evolve, the language within us—our thoughts, emotions, and the way we interpret the world—remains steadfast. This internal language isn't just about words; it's about our very essence.

Imagine a young immigrant moving to a new country. They might learn the new language, adapt to new customs, and even start to enjoy new foods. But when they think, dream, or feel deeply, their thoughts often revert to their native tongue. That’s the language etched into their soul. It’s not just what they speak; it’s how they understand life.

Take, for instance, a famous example: the poet Pablo Neruda. Born in Chile, he spent years living in different countries due to political exile. No matter where he went, his poetry always carried the essence of his homeland’s language. The rhythm, the passion, the landscapes of Chile were embedded in his verse, even when he wrote in a foreign land. Neruda’s internal language—his unique poetic voice—was a constant in a life filled with change.

So, how do you apply this wisdom to your own life? First, recognize and embrace your internal language. It’s your most personal tool. Whether it's a literal language or a metaphorical one, this internal dialogue shapes your identity. You might move cities, change jobs, or alter your lifestyle, but stay connected to that internal voice. It’s your anchor.

Picture this: you’re sitting in a bustling coffee shop. Around you, conversations bubble up in different languages—a couple speaks French at the next table, a barista chats in Spanish while making espresso, and someone else is on a call in Mandarin. Despite all the external languages, when you close your eyes and think, your internal language is what guides your thoughts. It’s deeply rooted, like a tree’s underground network, unseen but vital.

Think about your grandmother’s recipes. She might have written them in her native language, complete with little notes and personal touches. Even if you translate them, the essence remains. The love and care she put into those recipes are part of her internal language, passed down to you.

In modern times, with people moving globally more than ever, it's easy to feel disoriented. But remember, your internal language is your constant. It’s like having a piece of home with you, no matter where you are. So, next time you feel out of place, tap into that internal dialogue. It’s your most exclusive and final world—unchangeable amidst the chaos of life. And that's something profoundly comforting, don’t you think?