The Dark Heart of Italy - review 1

"The Dark Heart of Italy" has been an interesting read because it delves into the culture and mannerisms of the Italian people. I've noticed some interesting things, some of which I have heard before, like "Italians like to hear themselves talk". But there are other interesting things, like the fact that Italians don't really move out of their hometown; they don't really start working until they are in their 30's. It was not too surprising to hear about the legal systems, Tobias talked about waiting in line at the bank for half the day, and the waiting was as much a cultural experience as anything. People would catch up with each other, discuss and complain about the "system".

What I found most surprising was the information about Italian soccer. As the author says, it is surprising that Italians would be more calculating than passionate in the game, because in real life it seems to be opposite. Of course, some of the feelings the author was having about the game was confusing, because I don't understand all of the intricacies of the game.

So far the book has been interesting; I am working through it and soon will start on "City of Falling Angels" as soon as I have finished "The Dark Heart of Italy".