Napoli - Naples. Graffiti and rubbish everywhere, vespas zooming through the narrowest alleys, crowded streets and a constant smell of pizza in the air. The city is football mad and Napoli winning the Italian league has fuelled this enthusiasm. Blue and white banners and flags hang from every balcony, across roads and out of every window. It is a fascinating city, full of historic buildings and monuments in the shadow of Vesuvius. The people are friendly and welcoming. Despite a boom in tourism many Neapolitans have seen no benefits. The number of landlords choosing to turn to Air B&B is making it harder than ever for locals to find affordable accommodation. Youth unemployment stands at around 50% and almost 40% of the population are at risk of social exclusion or poverty. At the same time there are plenty of people wearing expensive designer labels and driving the finest cars.
Walking through the city streets, we discovered a beautiful mural on the side of a building.....
NAPOLI
Is it a tear? Well, maybe. Or just a trick of the light? Perhaps the white paint in the right place all the time? Head up but can’t take her eyes off the streets. The quarters where people must beg just to eat While Armani clad men puff on Cuban cigars And step over children to get to their cars. The holy and righteous step out of grand churches, So full of God they don’t notice the homeless. Aromas...of fresh bread, dried fish and coffee Compete in the air Neapolitans breathe But how is this fair?
Blue banners are boasting “We won! We are one!” Yet division is clear as the shade is from sun. Fine food on display outside every café To lure in the customers willing to pay But unhappy to spend any change on the poor Sat moaning with hunger outside on the floor.
As a tourist I kid myself I’m not to blame But reality tells me that I’m just the same. My heart filled with pity, my wallet with coins Which I give to get rid of the kids who annoy When I’m trying to sip a Campari or beer. I know that sounds shit and unpleasant to hear. So I’m sorry poor girl, you must watch this cruel world, Looking down on a town with full chaos unfurled. You can’t walk on by, and you can’t close your eyes To the drugs, prostitution and organised crime. Forced to see fear of the Mafia here Camorra brings horror and terror severe.
So, I bet every dawn that you’re cursing your maker. Regret each sunset that it’s your face he’s painted. A mural so splendid intended to make This great city start thinking ‘bout its future fate. I so hope you see hope and get to age happily And smile wide with pride at a unified Napoli.
the autistic poet - July 2023
#italy #italia #napoli #autism #aspergers #autismawareness #autismacceptance #thisisautism #autisticpoet #naples
Comments