Le Lezioni

We are nearing the end of our second week and I have yet to write about language school. Often it is difficult to put experience into words. The depth or quality of the moment becomes lost in one dimensional words lining up in rows across a single, flat page. Of course descriptive words are crucial. They paint pictures in the mind giving words dimension, lifting them off the page. But what about non-visual thoughts and emotions or apparent mundane tasks - such as learning Italian grammar? Take such a task, transport it into a new environment, and suddenly the ordinary takes on new color and life. But how does one find words that preserve that life and keep it from appearing mundane? I will just have to begin and hope for the best. 

Upon arriving out of breath at the landing just above the 66^th step, Elettra, one of our teachers, whom we had met the day before, introduced us to Mauro, the school director, Sabrina another of our instructors and Aldo who wears many hats. In reality, they all have ended out being our instructors.

Left to Right: Elettra, Me, Julie, Leann, Sabrina, Camille, and Gracie (the white fluff ball)

I have previously introduced my traveling companions Annette and Julie. Add Camille (Florida) along with her four footed traveling companion Gracie and our class is complete. Formal instruction begins at 9:00 AM and goes until 12:50 PM five days a week. Each day we stop around 11:00 to walk down to a nearby caffe` bar for a hot beverage. Leann (Canada) who was completing her last week of private instruction joined us the first week. After coffee we return to class with a different instructor. There are several activities scheduled after classes throughout the week. The first week: on Monday staff and students met at a nearby caffe` bar for an aperitivo of cheese, bread, meats and wine. On Tuesday Mauro gave a fascinating lecture (in Italian) on early artwork centered around La Pasqua (Easter). Thursday we took a gira` (excursion) to a nearby Abby with wonderful frescos, and Friday we ate a traditional Florentine meal together.

Coming to school at Saena Iulia is like entering someone’s home to study their language.  All of the staff is warm, helpful and genuinely kind.  

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