2024/Julia-

I am from the land of the pizza,

From fresh grapes and mozzarella.

I am from the rolling hills and white lilies under the ruins of a fallen city.

Village, markets they tasted like ravioli.

I am from the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The honorable Romans.

Whose civilization I remember.

As if they were my own.

I'm from “Do your chores.” and “Go take the dog out.”

From “Don't hit your brother!” and “Do the dishes.”

I'm from the run clubs and the

volleyball teams.

From “Love you!” and “You're crazy!”

I'm from “Learn your Italian!”

With a little inspiration.

And ten problems I can solve myself.

I'm from beauty and silence,

Dandelions and sunflowers,

From the lime green fields

To the trees

Used to keep me alive.

Under my bed was a purple lilac

Spilling memories of departure

A disappointing and tearful past

To drift beneath my dreams.

I am from those moments

Bel Paese before the Land of Morning Calm.