There is nothing like cobblestone at your feet, the Italian language in your ear, and the feeling of history right before your eyes. With all these emotions surrounding your body as you walk the streets of Rome, it is easy to fall for Rome’s “fatal charm.” Barzini uses this statement “the fatal charm of Italy” to describe how this country puts a spell over anything that steps foot on its land.
When we first flew into Rome, I could already sense that this place was special. After walking through the city, I realized why. There was so much beauty and culture surrounding every street. The people are drenched in fashion and full of life. The ruins decorate the city with an artsy twist and historical story. Aside from all that, this city has more cafés, gelato shops, and snack bars than anywhere I have been. Not a bad deal. Barzini also mentions the art that Rome brings to its visitors. He categorizes all art as the “great art of being happy,” which then makes everyone happy.
As exhilarating as this Roman experience has been, there have been some moments that make me question our relationship (Mine and Rome’s relationship). The Rome experience basically starts from Termini. Something about this place gives me a rushed, uncomfortable, and intense feeling. People are in such a hurry sometimes, I feel like I am almost in their way. As we move into the city, there is a sense of speed. The cars are speeding, the pedestrians are speeding, and even time is speeding. Basically, the only thing that seems to be at rest is the man in the orange, fury blanket we see every morning at Termini.
I can confidently say that our relationship is moving in a forward direction and things are looking pretty bright for us in the future. As much as I am falling for this city, there are still flaws that I notice and have to learn to accept. It is my job to continue to work out the kinks, but I don’t expect it to be a one way street. Rome has to do its part in this relationship, which now that I think about it, will probably be hard. It amazing how one thing could be exhilarating and oppressing at the same time.
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Dayna,
ReplyDeleteThis post made me laugh, mainly because of the comment about the homeless person under the orange fury blanket. Seeing old faithful(homeless dude) every morning makes me wonder if they ever move from that spot. I agree with you about the charm or the city. I felt the same way once we arrived here. The simple fact that we were in the city of Rome made it surreal. Termini was chaotic that first week. Now I am getting more comfortable and look forward to experiences at termini as well as the city itself.
I really enjoyed your post! I remember seeing that old man under the orange fuzzy blanket in Termini every morning. I also felt the same way about how Termini was so busy the first time we went there, but it is getting better now that I know what I am doing.
ReplyDeleteDayna, Well done as always. Keep up the good work. Rome will do its part and try to seduce you. It will be interesting to see how this relationship turns out.
ReplyDeleteIm guessing the blanket man is a browns fan. But what you said is so true. Its tough to keep up with their culture speed. Its probably because America is filled with so many fat and lazy people. I think the reason why this place is so special for people that come is that its ups outway its downs tremendously. Go Browns!
ReplyDeleteI understand what you mean about the city being rushed and busy but wait until we get home everyone is going to think the same thing about us! but i think the city and you have a bright future it will grow on you soon!
ReplyDeleteDayna, I can relate to your problem with the city making you feel uncomfortable. In Termini, I feel like I am constantly being watched by someone, or watching for pickpockets. This does get old but I think we'll get a lot more comfortable with it.
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