One of the many benefits of traveling to Italy, especially to Italian-Americans, is that you experience firsthand the differences between Italian and Italian-American culture. For me, some of these differences were quite surprising. One of the most memorable revelations was the reaction some Italian friends had not only to The Godfather but also to Mario … Continue reading Mario Puzo
Culture
Mythical Italy
Have you ever run into someone you have not seen in decades? I have. Recently, via social media, I made contact with a childhood friend. We had not seen each other since I was 15. He was an old man; what little hair he had was white and his belly hung over his belt. What … Continue reading Mythical Italy
Who is your Favorite Guitarist?
If I were to ask you to name a great guitarist, who would you name? If you are from my generation, you might say Clapton or Hendrix. If you are old school, you might go with B.B. King or Les Paul. If, however, you are really old school, and I am talking 18th century old … Continue reading Who is your Favorite Guitarist?
Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben, & Chef Boyardee
Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben, & Chef Boyardee; one of these things is not like the other. In the wake of the world becoming more aware of the damage caused by racial stereotypes, many of the icons with which we have become accustomed are being replaced. Land o’ Lakes recently removed the native American from … Continue reading Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben, & Chef Boyardee
Are Italian-Americans Italian?
Are Italian-Americans Italian? People keep telling me we aren’t. When I say I am Italian, Italian-Italians, those born in Italy, look at me with suspicion and scoff. American Uber-patriots chide me, telling me that I am American. In their minds, to associate myself the culture of my forbears is close to treason. With so many … Continue reading Are Italian-Americans Italian?
