Day 3, My Italia is not herself today

(A series of personal observations recorded as Italy takes action against the spread of Covid-19, first published March 11, 2020)

​My Italia is not entirely herself today. Sure, she still is beautiful, even with her dust mask half on, hole cut out for her nose to peek through (I don't correct her, she's never been practical and one must breathe, even in times like these). She's beautiful even with shutters where there should be open doors and the smell of coffee. But she’s quieter than usual on a sunny late winter morning; the warmth and light have not brought with them the expected chaos. And, when we meet halfway through the empty piazza, she is perhaps just a little less exuberant in her affection: should I kiss you? Should I not kiss you? (Ok maybe just this once as I would be sorry to have missed the chance.)