Page 6 - Italian-American Herald - July 2024

6 ITALIANAMERICANHERALD.COM | JULY2024 CULTURE
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The tradition of bella figura is not about
a pretentious display of wealth but to showing an appreciation for life by living
as well as you can and making thoughtful presentations in everything you do. There is a large disparity of income across the continent but even Italians who cannot afford more expensive goods can still enjoy everyday pleasures. Satisfaction and enjoyment can come from making and eating homemade pasta, gathering with family, relaxing with
an apertivo or a cappuccino while watching people passing by on the street. It can also be meeting with friends in a beautiful park to enjoy a barbecue or a simple picnic with some wine and appetizers.
These are just a few examples of how Italians live to appreciate the simple things in life, and we can do the same! This custom is so ingrained in Italian society that it influences both public behavior and private beliefs. For Italians life is not just work, but something to be enjoyed and appreciated every day. Fare la bella figura is a tradition that truly embodies la dolce vita! IAH
ITALIAN-AMERICANHERALD
It’s all about the presentation and the taste! | ADOBE STOCK