This summer, I am working as an au pair in Italy. This California girl has been transplanted into another reality, a land filled with beautiful paintings, crumbling brick buildings, and the most amazing pasta sauce ever.
Living here is like a dream for me, because of not just the food, but also the beauty of the landscape and the kindness of the people. The people here are very pleasant, but upon being introduced to new Italian friends, I have noticed that they all have the same reactions when they find out where I'm from.
1. Wow/ Oh my Gosh/ Ma-DONNA
The Italians I have met in my rural town are always shocked that someone from the marvelous and amazing U.S. of A. would deign to come to humble ol' Italy. They are always incredibly surprised. (Ma-DONNA is an expression in Italy, referencing the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus. I have used capital letters to emphasize how they pronounce it.)
2. But America is so amazing!
The grass is always greener, right? In the states, we think of Italy as a paradise: amazing food and art, and great looking people. Italians agree with all of this, but they find other things to romanticize about the U.S. Examples include some of our state parks, such as the Grand Canyon or the Redwood Forests. They also idolize America for very political reasons, such as the idea that it's easy to find high paying jobs there. Also, it's rare that they call it the U.S. When speaking in English, they just say "America."
3. Why are you here?
They always emphasize the word "here" with slight revulsion. Sometimes people will guess that I am studying here, but usually, they have no other guesses. When I explain that I'm teaching English, they usually cheer up a little because most Italians either do or want to speak English fluently.
4. You are so lucky to be American/ I wish I could go to America.
I have been jokingly asked to trade passports with a number of people, including the guy who checked it at the airport. Again, the grass is always greener, right?
5. But do you like Italy?
This is always asked with anxiety as if it would be possible for me to say no. This is the land of oil painting and pasta, of course, I like it! They stereotype of Americans is that we're chubby, but I've actually acquired most of my chub here.
The first conversation that I have with any Italian is always the same, them praising the U.S. and me praising Italy. It is hard for me to understand why they are so obsessed with the states, but they have no problem accepting that I love Italy for the art and food. This experience has absolutely taught me that we always want what somebody else has, but it has also taught me to appreciate and accept what we do have. After all, America is where Beyoncé lives, right?
