Settimana Una - Response to Sydney's "Image Junkyard, #1 (Week 1)"

Fairly lovely, as always. I'm particularly impressed by the way you took a moment in the morning and connected it to something else you want to write about--I understand that perfectly, given that I'm dedicated to figuring out a way to talk about my aunt while on this trip.

That said, a few specifics, in case you continue this. I'd like to see a little more depth in your interaction with him. It might just be my experience with your work, but I immediately went to a romantic/intimate place when you said "he is not Italian except for his tongue." Your intent--that he speaks Italian--is entirely clear. However, it momentarily sexualizes him, which is obviously problematic when you then use him as a springboard to talk about your grandfather (you and the grandparent sex).

I would also say that, other than the detail that he is Italian and looks American to you, I don't really see why this needs to be in Italy. It could occur anywhere. Given the reason we're here is to write, I would suggest you try to root images a little more in Italy and the way that you see it. Describe the cafe more, or what you're eating, or even the Italian literature you're reading.

"And I wonder why he chose today to speak without words." -- Beautiful. Expand on this. This is a piece all about sound (language, music, piano, etc.). Use your semiotic skills and tell us why he chose to speak without words today.