Talking for the sake of talking

Italians talk not because there is something important to say. They talk b/c they like to hear themselves. It is enjoyable to them. This of course makes them more inclined to talk to strangers than say, an American. And wholly cow, they love answering questions. Feel free to ask for directions. Now don’t expect to understand what they mean. Where were they pointing? Likely, they were just waving their hand in no particular direction. Remember, they talk for the sake of talking. I AM CONVINCED that they will give you directions (albeit the wrong ones) even if they have no idea – solely so they may have the pleasure of vocalizing themselves.

I need to start talking about some of the places I’ve been along with some highlights, mostly conversations. But it is nearing the time for this bus to Volterra (I’m on the way to my first farm). I’ve enjoyed this time to write, as well as the gentlemen in this café who enjoy harassing the neighborhood children when they walk by with cigarettes in their mouths (“Fumare e’ male. Non fumare!” – Smoking is bad. Don’t smoke.) Half surprised they haven’t lit up themselves b/c everybody smokes in this country.