Nooooormaaaaa

I saw Bellini's "La Norma" last night, in a gorgeous old theater in downtown Bologna.  Nonna was glammed up like a movie star--sunglasses and big jewelry and elegant shawl--as were most of the other opera-goers.  We had a box all to ourselves, with a great view of the orchestra pit and close to the stage.  This opera is reputed to be one of the most difficult to perform, and as I spent a significant amount of time concerned that someone's vocal chords were going to snap, I'd say that sounds correct.  Favorite part was either the Roman soldiers battling in slow-motion behind a dream-like translucent screen, or the end with all its clashing and the gold curtain fluttering down, death-by-fire, which did, yes, bring tears to my eyes.  Or the moon-worship.  There were also, via the Romanesque costumes, several almost-but-not-quite wardrobe malfunctions involving breasts and long robes that get caught on things.  Nonna and I carried on light but cordial conversation between acts, though I kind of messed up when I tried to ask how long the intermission was and she thought I was asking how much of the opera remained, as in "are we there yet?"  She couldn't believe I hadn't seen an opera, despite liking opera.  Made the frustrated Italian hand gestures and all.  In conclusion: yes.  Opera is really cool.

Just started reading "The Pale King" by David Foster Wallace.  It is breathtaking.  I'm almost to the point where I shove it in everyone's face and force them into it--you have been warned.  Took it to the park to savor it in the sun.  The park's where all the young people hang out on spring Sundays, shirtless, shoeless, dogs reeling and guitars strumming and little fires smoking happily in the grass.  A pair of 40something brand new lovers were on a bench in the shade, pawing each other and snapping photos like teenagers.  I now have my first official sunburn of the year, though it's more subtle than the usual excruciating full-body ache.  Just a little rose flush, a smattering of freckles.

Sunday night is always pizza.  V cuts pizza with scissors/why have I not done this before/this is genius.  Margherita tonight, on the couch, and Fellini's "Amarcord."






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