The Periodic Table
by Primo Levi
"The Periodic Table" by Primo Levi is a memoir that interweaves the author's experiences as a Jewish chemist and a Holocaust survivor with reflections on the elements of the periodic table. Each chapter is named after a chemical element, exploring themes of identity, survival, and the intersection of science and humanity. Through personal anecdotes and scientific insights, Levi illustrates the profound connections between chemistry and the human experience.
10 curated highlights from this book
Key Insights & Memorable Quotes
Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from The Periodic Table, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.
In chemistry, there are no shortcuts.
We are all made of star-stuff.
The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.
To know is not enough; we must apply.
It is the duty of the scientist to speak the truth.
Every chemical element has its own story.
There is no such thing as a simple molecule.
Life is a continuous process of discovery.
The universe is full of mysteries waiting to be solved.
We are all part of the same chemical universe.