an introduction to this country

It's a pretty known fact that eskimos have over 20 different words for snow. Any linguist would tell you that language reflects the world views of a particular culture. Because snow is important to eskimos, they naturally have many words for it.

The Italian language has numerous names for sexual parts. A girl's parts can be called 'little butterfly', 'little potato' and the same word for 'pretty'. Because sex is important to Italians, they naturally have many words for it.

The Italian electorate is one that would vote the first woman who ever fucked a horse into parliament. It is also one that would vote as their prime minister, a man whose infidelity is a known fact and makes inappropriate political jokes.

Do I think it's ridiculous? Of course. But if you ask me if i disapprove of this way of life, I'd tell you that these Italians, they know more about living than any of us do. There is no where else in the world where pleasure is more highly regarded. It is an excessive culture even with its food, architecture and beauty. Berlusconi knows how to have fun, the language is cheeky, and everyone takes life with a pinch of salt. It is kinda exhilarating.

That's why what happened to me today was kinda funny instead of alarming.

While waiting for Marco to pick me up for lunch, I decided that waiting at the main street would be a good idea. Standing alone by the side of the road, I had no idea why everyone in their cars were staring as they passed.

Then there was this car that slowed down as he saw me. It wasn't Marco's car, so maybe it's someone I know.. I looked intently at the driver as he drove slowly passed me, but he was an older man and didn't look familiar at all. He kept staring and eventually stopped slightly ahead. And then I realised.

An Asian girl standing at the side of the road alone, waiting. What else could I look like. Even with sneakers and no make up on, it didn't help the fact that I was waiting on a street where lonely Italian men frequent when the wife and kids are in bed.

Only in Italy would a car stop at 1 in the afternoon on a busy street for a girl dressed in jeans and sneakers, hoping to get laid. Only in Italy.

You've got to love this place :)