The Dual Nature of Italy: A Frustrating Paradise
Italy is a land full of contradictions. While many may whinge about its problems, the country remains one of the finest on Earth. It is a place where you can be yourself, savor exquisite cuisine, and gaze at history in a way that is impossible anywhere else. But why do Italians and non-Italians alike whinge about Italy? The answer lies in the unique dynamics of the country and its inhabitants.
Why Does Everyone Whinge about Italy?
It’s important to clarify that, as someone who has lived in Italy, I don't whinge about Italy or myself. The premise that all the whingeing is correct is a flawed one. Much of the whingeing about Italy could be applied to any European country or the USA. After all, anything that happens in Italy, good or bad, is not unique but a common phenomenon worldwide. However, Italy’s unique relationship with its problems sets it apart.
Unique Relationship with Problems
In many places, people are polarized about what’s wrong and how to fix it. In Italy, everyone acknowledges issues but doesn't believe they are fixable. This cycle of complaining and resigned acceptance is deeply rooted in Italian culture. Despite the beauty and historical brilliance, Italy is a dysfunctional society, often characterized by rule-breaking behavior. This behavior stems from the lack of trust in a rule-based society, making it difficult to be a rule follower when no advantage is promised.
Romanticizing the Problems
Italy’s dysfunction should not overshadow its beauty and brilliance. The country is a paradise with outstanding natural beauty, iconic history, and a plethora of artisan crafts from furniture to fashion and cars. However, beneath this surface of perfection lies a society that is often frustrating and imperfect. This is why it is so hard to answer why Italy is both a paradise and a paradise of frustration.
Dual Experiences in Italy
Italy is a place where you can witness famous works of art, breathtaking ruins, verdant meadows teeming with wildflowers, and, in the same ten-minute period, step in dog poop and choke on exhaust fumes from a motorini. The local cuisine is almost divine, but the locals might look at you strange if you mix the wrong food together or eat it at the wrong time of day. Public transportation mishaps can range from mildly irritating to surreal, with stories that could fill entire paragraphs. Complete strangers might try to grab your ass or steal your wallet, yet Italians will go out of their way to help you when in trouble. This juxtaposition of extremes is what makes Italy unique.
Resilience and Appreciation
Italy is much like a person who causes constant frustration but is loved dearly. You’ll find that the positives and negatives of Italy exist simultaneously. You might focus on one or the other at any given time. Living in Italy, I swung constantly from anger and depression to excited bliss. This could simply be culture shock for someone who has lived mostly in the USA, but I’ve heard similar comments from people I met from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Holland, South Korea, India, and many if not most of the Italians themselves.
Common Complaints and Sentiment
Romans, like many Italians, rant about traffic, garbage, crime, perverts, and bureaucracy. But they might follow this with “Ma Roma e' la citta piu' bella del mondo.” This quote reflects a common sentiment: despite the issues, Italy remains a spectacular place. Personally, I tend to agree.