Odes to Italy

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Still Lives the Eternal City

What contrast there is

Between old and new,

In shadows of ruins

And ancient statues.

Between bright marble

Fountains and façade,

And historical

Dark conquests abroad.

Many times victor,

But also defeated,

Once glorious but now

From borders retreated.

Your emperors once

Ruled far and wide,

Your popes decreed and

Did kingdoms divide.

Education and

Roads spread from your walls,

But ambition and

Greed led to your falls.

Sacked by the Vandals,

Goths and foreign troops,

Today’s invaders

Are tourist groups.

Seven hills remain,

Your ruins may age,

The Eternal City lives,

A monumental stage.

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Italy in Haiku

Foot in Many Periods

Modernity now

But ancient ruins all around,

Italy spans ages.

SPQR

Such power you had,

A vast reach and dominion.

But…empires crumble.

Eternal City

Oh, glorious Rome!

The centuries protect you,

To eternity.

Torre Famosa

Atop your great height

Did Galileo prove right.

Lean in against “Truth”!

Cibo Infinito

Delectable dishes

And repasts abound.

A gourmand’s delight!