Russia and America share a Neapolitan Lunch

When a Russian musician and an American engineer share a Neapolitan lunch, in the presence of an Indian and a Colombian, you know the Global Village has truly arrived.

On sunday, my landlord hosted a farewell lunch for the American engineer – who happens to be my latest friend in Pastaland – since she flew out back home to Seattle early this morning. Hence, there was clam pasta as primo followed by baked potatoes with sausages in basil and olive oil as secondo. Of course all of it was washed down by with generous supplies of Muscato white (strawberry) flavour. Then came blood organges, custard tart and the final cafe – black as hell and sweet as love – to round off the meal. Lunch commenced at 2 and we were still at the table at 4. That, my dears, is normal for a sunday lunch. Don’t even think about how much they manage to put away!

But yes, coming back to the people present.

I can only feel about as big as an ant in that august company. Here’s a brief description of the people there.

My landlord. Aged 35 years (approximately). Masters in Optical Engineering. Ph.D. in something similar. Preparing final submission for second Masters in Psychology. Owns an engineering business. Teaches at a Polytechnic institute.

The American kid. Aged 23 years. Finishing her Graduation in Naval Engineering.

The Russian lady. Aged 27 years (approximately). Is a musician. Writes romance novels in Italian. Studies industrial engineering.

The Colombian kid. Aged 19 years. Is studying industrial design here.

Right.

You know what’s really astonishinig? That in the three weeks that I have been here, I have come across so many, many intelligent, intriguing people that it’s humbling to know the extent of the human mind! At the house party last sunday, for example, one kid was studying Math (her focus is Ramanujan’s theory!) and another is studying common law and international trade and foreign exchange! I mean, when I was their age, all I worried about was being late for dinner!

Anyways, on a personal note, am learning to build bridges. And here’s what real ice looks like…

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