Watching Italians eat {especially men, I have to say} is a form of tourism the books don't tell you about. They close their eyes, raise their eyebrows into accent marks, and make sounds of acute appreciation. It's fairly sexy. Of course I don't know how these men behave at home, if they help with the cooking or are vain and boorish and mistreat their wives. I realized Mediterranean cultures have their issues. Fine, don't burst my bubble. I didn't want to marry these guys, I just wanted to watch. {p. 247}
Observing Italian men while they eat can feel like an unwritten form of tourism, as they express delight and appreciation for their meals in a captivating way. Their enjoyment becomes almost a performance, marked by their gestures and sounds, which adds to the allure of the experience. The writer finds this display attractive and intriguing, even if it raises questions about their behavior outside of dining situations, especially concerning domestic roles and relationships.
Despite recognizing the complexities and issues within Mediterranean cultures, the author revels in the simple pleasure of watching these men during mealtime. There’s a sense of appreciation for the moment that transcends any desire for a deeper commitment or understanding of their lives beyond the table. Ultimately, it highlights the joy that can be found in observing cultural practices, even if it is just for the experience itself.
