Living
in a country for a long time it is easy to come to regard
the lifestyle as simply the natural order of things. Exposure
to visitors however is a reminder that there is no universal
agreement as to the norm. Some Italian customs are not
easily comprehended at first view. These articles are
an attempt to demystify Italian society and render it
more accessible to those who encounter it from a different
perspective.
The
cold, wet winter months give me plenty of time to devote
to writing. My wife Sarah has been most encouraging and
supportive insisting I soldier on. This could be due to
a concern the world might otherwise be deprived of my
priceless insights and innovative literary style. It could
also be that she likes to keep me occupied and out of
the way while she gets on with more important things.
Public
disclaimer: It may appear that as a welcomed immigrant
I'm ungrateful and overly critical of Italy. I wish to
state that of all the places in the world I know, I like
Italy the most. I love the food, wine, climate, culture
and most of all the people. I don't think I could live
as happily anywhere else and wish to thank all who have
helped me enjoy the life I have here.
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Table
Matters
We have all been told how important it is to eat together,
how nobody does it any more, that we all just graze
the fridge or snack on unhealthy junk food. It is implied,
or stated that the absence of required communal feeding
times will lead to the breakdown of the family .
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The
Rite Stuff
There are saints for all seasons, places and occupations.
Each town has its own, which is normally celebrated
with a local public holiday. Most have at least a small
portion of their Saint preserved for viewing .
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The
Family Business
Among the many things for which Italy is famous and
one of it's major exports is organised crime .
. . read more |
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Love
in a Hot Climate
Italy has long been viewed, from without, as a particularly
sensuous society. A place for "La Dolce Vita",
those afternoon siestas with a "Latin Lover"
or an evening tryst on the beach with smouldering
.
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