Wednesday, November 29, 2006

All the City's a Stage

The other day in one of my posts I mentioned a comment that someone once told me that I think goes well with the photo I have to show you today. It was a professor I used to work with, and as she was doing an orientation with students on Italian life and culture, she mentioned to them that living in Rome is like a big play. As if the city streets were a stage, once you step out onto them, everyone plays a role and everyone is watching the show. I often think of this comment when I feel like someone is staring at me, or being rude, or even when I see nice things happening. It just kind of helps to put it all into perspective.

I'm glad I caught the moment in this photo: I think it is a great example of how the modern and ancient intertwine on a daily basis. I saw this "human on display" while walking through Piazza Colonna the other day. I thought it looked like some kind of living sculpture, that little niche carved out just for him and his book. If you keep your eyes open in Rome, you'll find surprises around just about every corner.

8 comments:

Cynthia Rae said...

I LOVE Rome. You just never know what you are going to run into there!
Cyn
ps. Great photo!

Jessica Brogan said...

You know, I meant to just take a peek at your blog, and instead I've been reading for an hour. I lived in rome, studied there for nine months. At the time I was very depressed -- shocking, for being in such a great place -- and I ended up going home a month early. In a way that may be the only time of my life I regret. I'm living in Switzerland now, and wow...i dream of being back in italy. reading your blog today has given me a little piece of rome, and i'll be back to read more!

Anonymous said...

I love how you are able to capture the essence of Rome. That city was definately the highlight of my stay in Italy.
Great Picture

ginkers said...

Once upon a time I lived and worked near Florence for a year but reading your tales of Rome brings back a lot of fond memories. There was nothing like going shopping in Firenze where the women in fur coats fought more dirty that an all-in wrestler if you got between them and a bargain...

Sassy said...

This picture is so Rome. Thanks for bringing it to us stuck elsewhere.

FinnyKnits said...

See, it's no wonder that I love that place.

I mean, when I'm visiting you and Ale, you bring these things to my attention the entire time I'm there.

Great shot!

Julie said...

I'd love to be sitting there! Its like a fairy tale!

Shelley - At Home in Rome said...

Cyn: Remember, we still have our Hard Rock date for whenever you can make it down here!

Jessica: Great to see you, thanks for stopping by. I worked with study abroad students for several years and I can tell you that your experience is definitely not uncommon. It doesn't always depend on the place; study abroad can be a catalyst for all kinds of emotions and Rome is always here for when you are ready to come back and visit!

Moon: Thanks, what a nice compliment.

Ginkers: Great analogy about the women in fur coats--I can totally picture it!

Sassy, Finny, Julie: Thanks! Glad you liked it.