last week i found myself lost in yet another dazzling italian city . . .

its gritty charm and splendor
deeply layered
its cultural soul revealing
the spirit of arrivals and departures

founded in the 4th century bc
independent maritime republic 1005 to 1797
famous foods, famous citizens
fierce ingenuity, hard-earned elegance

for centuries a city of
shipbuilders, merchants, and bankers
medieval, renaissance, baroque, and gothic
art and architecture
a very important mediterranean seaport

my own italian grandmother
departed from this port in 1929
20 years old and leaving her native country behind
journeying to a new continent
with her new american husband

heavily targeted during world war 2
many buildings destroyed or damaged
the first northern italian city to rise
against nazis and fascists

meandering along the famed caruggi
a tangled labyrinth of narrow alleyways
the wandering-and-wondering discovery of
what’s waiting around the next fascinating bend
 
 
a glimpse of G E N O A .

yesterday, in bologna italy, i experienced the enchanting strength only a vibrant city on a dazzling summer day can bring . . . and also a sudden and startling shift in perspective, forged even stronger following the recent coronavirus lockdown. truly a touch of bliss.

i thought about not sharing any more entries from my (extensive) pandemic diary, but then i realized “hey, this is life in 2020” . . . for me, it seems crucial to remember the details of this highly unusual year, to honor what we’ve gone through and where we are at present.

july 18 (from my facebook post, rhythm realignment / day 13):

the attics of my soul . . .

ironically both houses closed this week. my dad’s on monday, my grandpa’s on tuesday. and now to reconcile with the closing of this chapter.

july 6 (rhythm realignment / day 1):

though it is still closed to americans (a decision i agree with even if it means i am unable to see my sons), italy is looking and feeling more unlocked every day. there are still cautionary measures in place, of course.