Historical arranged marriages in the Southern Italian community in the diaspora and Italy: captured in Italian Australian film
Promised (2019) written & directed by Nick Conidi. See stills below.
In the early 50s, two young Italian Australian children are betrothed to marry by their fathers. Fast forward to the age of liberation in the 70s with a changed society and whispers of traditions past, the two are expected to carry through with that promise. As old ways clash with different mindsets of how love is ought to end up, a nostalgic and complicated story unfolds.
âThere was a time when arranged marriages were not uncommon in our community. Someone knew someone who was suitable to someone. It was the way it was. We even had a word for it; âcombinareâ (to arrange). But the world was changing and so were we, some of us sooner than others.â
This film stars Tina Arena, Paul Mercurio, Antoniette Iesue, and Daniel Berini.
Hereâs an early Italian Australian immigrant tinged film I found! Although from a different time period, within the film we find some origins of âThe Italianâ and other immigrant archetypes in the Australian landscape.
New to Australia, Nino Culotta, an Italian immigrant and sports journalist, hilariously navigates the cultural quirks and challenges of his new life in the 1966 comedy âTheyâre A Weird Mob.â
Struggling with the language barrier, finding a job, and understanding Aussie slang, Ninoâs journey is filled with humor and heart.
Through determination and the help of newfound friends, he learns to embrace the Australian way of life.
This classic film comedically explores themes of multiculturalism, and the immigrant experience in 1960s Australia.
It is no doubt that 2023 was The Year of The Wog, not just for wogism, but across the various places online.
What a pleasure it has been to create alongside these accounts and creators, in Australia and also in diasporas abroad.
As a reader and follower myself, I have continuously been inspired by the artists, the businesses, the creators and anyone else producing online content in this ethnic space, this part of the internet that we find resonance and relatability in; our space.
It has also been an honour to create and share the space, but it has been an honour to create for you, the wogism readership and community that has been cultivated over the past year and a half.
Above all, the category, and niche, has been driven by the very people that experience our way of life; the wogs, and you don't get any more authentic than that.
I want to thank the readers of wogism.blog and the followers of @wogism on Instagram for engaging with every article, post, reel or story; even if it was just a like.
I also want to thank those with whom I have had the great honour of meeting either via DM or Zoom, and even in person. Your shared understanding and passion for this community is not unnoticed, I thank you greatly for your time and conversation.
This year has been full of unforgettable moments and content, and you had a part in it just as much as I did.
With a new year upon us, comes new energy and ideas.
I look forward to where wogism takes me, and what meaning it has for you moving forward.
This post does not mean I've completely wrapped up, but it does signal for us to reflect and consolidate all that we have achieved together.
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As always,
Stay well, and be well.
Nicholas
PS. Merry Christmas ya filthy animals
If you have anything you wanted to share about this year, please feel free to DM me on Instagram, or email me at [email protected]
In true Sunday style, I present the fifth instalment of Wog Media Sunday Spotlights, every Sunday on wogism.blog
Superwog, the comedic genius hailing from Australia, was a youth who carved a niche for himself with his distinctive take on cultural stereotypes and everyday situations.
Born Theodore Saidden on June 17, 1995, in Sydney, he, along with his brother Nathan Saidden, have gained widespread recognition through their collaborative YouTube channel.
The heart of Superwog's comedic universe revolves around cultural clashes, wog family dynamics, and the quintessential Australian way of life. His comedic style is marked by sharp wit, exaggerated characters, and an unapologetic approach to addressing sensitive topics.
One of his standout YouTube videos, and a favourite of mine, "Parent Teacher Interviews," offers a hilarious glimpse into every student's dreaded day or night of the semester.
The skit artfully employs absurdity and farcical humour through a variety of characters, each contributing to the overall comedic brilliance.
In one scenario, a mother, adorned with ethnic flair and a fur shawl, staunchly defends her daughter's use of makeup at school, even going so far as to insult the teacher's intelligence. Meanwhile, she becomes fixated on acquiring the teacher's supposed nose from a recent surgery her sister desires.
Another scenario unfolds with an 18-year-old son, stuck at a Year 7 academic level, accompanied by his "abusive" father. The interview takes an uncomfortable turn as the teacher's attire is deemed "revealing," and the son reveals disturbing details about the physical harm endured by him and his family members.
A female student, accompanied by a legal guardian of questionable legitimacy, adds another layer of hilarity. Their odd pairing and suggestive interactions during the interview unravel a storyline suggesting he's her boyfriend, raising questions about his legal guardianship.
The skit reaches its pinnacle with a racist, white Australian mother lamenting the number of Asians in her son's year ("There's only one in the entire school", says the teacher) and advocating for expulsion. Notably, her son couldn't attend the interview as it was past his bedtime.
Superwog's "Parent Teacher Interviews" successfully portrays parents and legal guardians in unorthodox roles, using humour that elicits both quick laughs and leaves a lasting impact with memorable quotes.
In essence, the video masterfully captures the absurdity of parent-teacher interactions, showcasing Superwog's comedic prowess in navigating sensitive subjects with finesse.
As the laughter subsides, it's evident that Superwog's comedy lies in his ability to find humour in the quirks and complexities of everyday life.
Hope you enjoyed something a bit different rather than a film or TV series, it was a joy to revisit this, one of many iconic Superwog videos.
You can watch this video on YouTube, accompanied by the endless suite of videos Theo, Nathan and co have produced over the years.
Coming up to Christmas time (WTF?), I recommend the ABC special these legends took part in titled "The Difference Between Wogs & Aussies: CHRISTMAS". Enjoy!
The Legacy of Ancestral Artefacts: Family Treasures We Hold
Inspired by a fellow abruzzese, this article aims to discuss the family treasures many wogs, and in this case Italian-Australians, hold very dearly and very fondly.
Shoutout and special mention to my compatriot with whom I have made many conversations about the culture and language of our beautiful Abruzzo.
It is through conversation that we find common ground, and a profound one at that; sparking inspiration, shared understanding, and the ever-growing sense of community I attempt to create for myself but more importantly, for you, my readers.
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Now, while this piece is Italian-focused, I recognise that other wog communities are the same with what they hold dear. Whether on their person, or somewhere on display in the home; we all have ancestral artefacts.
In the heart of Italian-Australian households, lies a treasure trove of ancestral artefacts, each piece carrying echoes of a time long past.
These objects and stories, are more than mere relics; they are the tangible threads connecting generations with the resilience of Italian history.
From the embers of conquest and the tumult of war to the harmonious notes of reunification and the birth of republicanism, Italy's regions have witnessed it all - and the people that endured these time periods have those unique and telling lived experiences.
Amidst the ebb and flow of time, families have clung to their ancestral artefacts, passing them down with a sense of duty akin to a sacred (I'd say in the religious sense mostly) trust.
These objects, whether a weathered novel, a time-worn piece of jewelry, or a collection of old photos, serve as conduits for the transmission of memories and values.
Families recognise that these artefacts are more than relicsâthey are carriers of their unique narrative.
In a conversation with the past, these items become bridges between ancestors and descendants, fostering a sense of continuity that blurs and combines the lines of time.
Ancestral stories have value here too, and are not just silent witnesses to history; they carry within them the vivid narratives that define generations.
These stories, whispered from one era to the next, breathe life into those objects passed down through Italian families, they are complimentary.
Whether recounting tales of resilience during hardships or lighting up in the face of a fond memory, these narratives bind families together and serve as a moral compass for the present.
As families gather to share these stories, these pieces cease to be simple, transforming into vessels of cultural heritage, filled with collective memory and the warmth of familial bonds.
This ritual of storytelling becomes an enshrined tradition, ensuring that the vibrant legacy of the past is seamlessly woven into the fabric of its history, and the history of Australia.
At the heart of the matter is the desire for generational continuity.
Families keep these artefacts not merely as tokens of antiquity but as things that encapsulate the essence of who they are.
The academic synthesis of this phenomenon reveals a profound human need to anchor oneself in a shared history, to find meaning in the journey from one generation to the next.
In countries like Italy, where history is both a burden and a blessing, these artefacts are the anchors that ground families in their identity and sense of belonging with one another.
Through the passage of time, these objects become guardians of tradition, ensuring that the stories of the past resonate in the present and move into the future, creating a cultural legacy that transcends the boundaries of time itself.
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I hope you enjoyed this write up as much as I enjoyed creating it. Trinkets and things remind us of how things were in the homeland, and bring us to carry on our legacies in ways we want, to the people we choose.
Wog Media Sunday Spotlight #4: The Heartbreak Kid (1993) - A Cinematic Exploration of Culture & Lust
A couple days late, but you'll live! (I hope)
Heres the fourth instalment of Wog Media Spotlights, every Sunday on wogism.blog
In 1993, Michael Jenkins brought us a timeless masterpiece, "The Heartbreak Kid."
This film is not just a love story; it's a deep dive into the complexities of culture and the irresistible allure of forbidden lust.
Set against the backdrop of Melbourne, Australia, the movie showcases the life and culture of Greek Australians. The vibrant Greek community in Melbourne comes to life, offering a rich and colorful view of the Greek-Australian experience.
The director, Michael Jenkins, takes us on a visual and emotional journey, portraying the dichotomy between ethnic students and their angloceltic teachers and classmates. This cultural contrast serves as a profound exploration of identity, tradition, and generational clashes, making it a cornerstone of the film's narrative.
One of the most compelling aspects of "The Heartbreak Kid" is its portrayal of the wog subculture. As we know, the term "wog" was once a derogatory slang term but has been embraced as a term of cultural pride.
The film encapsulates the essence of this subculture, highlighting the distinct traditions, values, and familial bonds that define it. It's a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and spirit of the Greek Australian community.
At the core of the story lies a passionate and adulterous love affair between Nick Polides (Alex Dimitriades) and Christina (Claudia Karvan). This relationship adds a layer of complexity to the film's narrative.
Some other characters include George Polides (Nick's Father) played by Nick Lathouris, and Dimitri, Christina's fiancee played by Steve Bastoni.
The movie handles their affair with a degree of sensuality and intrigue, portraying the forbidden nature of their love in a savory yet controversial manner. The audience is drawn into their magnetic connection, navigating the fine line between love and lust, right and wrong.
Beyond its cinematic success, "The Heartbreak Kid" has had a lasting impact.
It transformed into a TV series, extending the narrative for those eager to delve deeper into the lives of its characters. The TV series further explores the nuances of culture, love, and identity, making it a must-watch for fans of the film.
Moreover, a Netflix reboot brought this classic tale to a new generation, ensuring that its themes of culture, identity, and love continue to resonate with audiences around the world. The reboot reintroduces the story to modern viewers, giving them a chance to connect with the characters and themes in a contemporary context.
All in all, "The Heartbreak Kid" (1993) is more than just a film; it's an immersive experience that explores culture and the intoxicating allure of forbidden love. It reminds us that, regardless of our cultural backgrounds, the universal themes of desire, passion, and longing are part of the human experience, making it a timeless cinematic gem.
Scopa: The Heartwarming Card Game That Bridges Generations
In the fast-paced world we live in, where technology often pulls us in different directions, there's something truly special about the moments we spend with our grandparents.
It's during these times that we get to connect with the past, learn from their wisdom, and bond over shared experiences. One of those cherished experiences that has stood the test of time is the Italian card game, Scopa.
A game of skill, strategy, and tradition, Scopa is a bridge between generations, offering an opportunity to gather, connect, and create lasting memories.
A Game with Deep Roots
Scopa, which means "broom" in Italian, has been played for generations, becoming an integral part of family gatherings, especially in Italy. This simple yet captivating card game traces its roots back to the 18th century and is played with a traditional Italian deck of 40 or 48 cards. The game's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its unique ability to bring people together.
A Lesson in Italian Culture
Scopa is more than just a game; it's a glimpse into the heart of Italian culture. Playing Scopa with your grandparents can be a wonderful way to learn about their heritage and traditions. Each card in the deck has a historical significance and is rich with symbolism, making it an ideal conversation starter. While enjoying the game, you might hear fascinating stories, anecdotes, and family lore, helping you better understand your roots.
A Family Affair
One of the most beautiful aspects of Scopa is how it thrives on family connections. It's not uncommon to see grandparents teaching their grandchildren the game, passing down the rules, strategies, and even a few secret techniques. The game's simple mechanics make it accessible to players of all ages, and it's a fantastic way to bring the family together, whether for a cozy evening at home or a grand family reunion.
Strategic and Challenging
Scopa is more than just a game of luck; it's a game of strategy, observation, and careful planning. The goal is to "sweep" the table by matching the value of cards from your hand with cards on the table. It's a game of wits, where you need to anticipate your opponents' moves, prevent them from scoring, and maximize your own points. This strategic depth adds an exciting dimension to the game, ensuring that it remains engaging, no matter how many times you play.
A Sense of Togetherness
The beauty of Scopa is not just in the game itself, but in the shared moments it creates. The laughter, friendly banter, and the sheer joy of being in each other's company are what make this card game so special. It's a moment of respite from our busy lives, where you can savor the simple pleasure of a close-knit family coming together.
Scopa is more than just a card game; it's a heartwarming tradition that bridges generations and fosters a sense of togetherness. When you play Scopa with your grandparents, you're not just engaging in a game; you're forging lasting memories and strengthening family bonds. So, the next time you sit down to play, take a moment to appreciate the rich heritage, the lessons in culture, and the warmth that this game brings to your family gatherings. Scopa is a reminder that, in this fast-paced world, the most meaningful moments are often the simplest ones.
After your Instagram poll responses and the MS Form responses I received, I've decided to put together the data and write something for you;
Chinotto, the quintessential Aussie bittersweet soft drink, has been tantalising our taste buds for ages. With its distinctive blend of citrus and herbal notes, it provides a unique taste experience that has made it a favourite among beverage enthusiasts. Among the top contenders in the world of chinotto, Lurisia takes the spotlight.
In this article, we'll dive into the world of chinotto and explore what makes these brands so darn good.
Lurisia Chinotto: A Taste of Tradition
Lurisia's Chinotto is a drink steeped in tradition, made with genuine care and attention. The roots of this Italian classic trace back to the Liguria Riviera, where Chinotto trees (new info for me) have been thriving since the 16th century.
Nowadays, the Slow Food Presidium in Savona is working hard to safeguard these precious citrus fruits, which give Lurisia's beverage its distinctive amber hue and intense aroma.
The sensory journey of Lurisia Chinotto is truly unique. It sports a striking and vibrant colour, resembling caramelised Afghan amber, while the scent is a delightful mix of citrus and spices.
The fizziness accentuates a complex bouquet, featuring hints of citrus, herbs, spices, and bitter caramel. When you take a sip, you're welcomed with a velvety and soft texture that evolves into a noble and harmonious body, all without being overly sweet.
Whether savoured on its own as a thirst-quencher or paired with scrumptious appetisers, Lurisia Chinotto offers a genuinely authentic Italian experience. Additionally, it shines as a fabulous ingredient in cocktails that call for a bold and exotic flavour.
Bisleri Chinotto: The Italo-Aussie Coca-Cola
Often hailed as the "Italo-Aussie Coca-Cola," Bisleri Chinotto is another fantastic player in the world of chinotto. Crafted from Italian Chinotto syrup, it delivers a classic Aussie sparkling dark brown drink with a distinct sweet and bitter profile, accompanied by an aromatic aftertaste.
Chinotto, which was initially invented in Italy in the 1930s, has seen a revival in popularity and is now highly sought after by aficionados and connoisseurs Down Under.
Bisleri's Chinotto captures the bittersweet flavour profile with citrusy and herbal notes, all coming straight from the Chinotto fruit itself.
Unlike Lurisia, Bisleri's Chinotto is perfect for enjoying as a stand-alone drink. It provides a refreshing and distinctly Aussie alternative to mainstream cola beverages.
Stappi Chinotto and San Pellegrino
While Lurisia and Bisleri steal the show, Stappi and San Pellegrino also deserve a fair go in the world of chinotto.
Stappi Chinotto offers another ripper take on the classic Italian drink, with its unique blend of flavours and profiles. Its presence in the market adds variety and choice for discerning chinotto enthusiasts.
San Pellegrino, a renowned name in the world of beverages, also offers its own version of Chinotto, combining the brand's reputation for quality with the unique taste of this traditional Italian drink.
Variety and Availability
Today, the world of chinotto goes beyond these particular brands.
Online retailers, local shops, pubs, and cafes often stock a variety of chinotto options, even in cans, giving enthusiasts the opportunity to explore different takes on this classic Aussie beverage.
Whether you prefer the heritage and tradition of Lurisia, the Aussie flair of Bisleri, or other brands like Stappi and San Pellegrino, you'll find that the world of chinotto is vast and diverse.
So, when it comes to the "best" chinotto, it really boils down to personal taste. Lurisia and Bisleri both offer unique and delightful versions of this classic Italian soda, each with its own charm. I, however, am fervently supportive of Bisleri with its strong memories stemming from my childhood.
Wog Media Sunday Spotlight #3: Acropolis Now (Nick Giannopoulos, George Kapiniaris & Simon Palomares)
Welcome to the third instalment of wog media spotlights, every Sunday on wogism.blog
This week, I watched various clips and episodes of the Australian comedy TV sitcom âAcropolis Nowâ created by Nick Giannopoulos, George Kapiniaris and Simon Palomares
This iconic display of culture and wog informed comedy originally aired from 1989 to 1992, on the Channel 7 Network.
Each bit revolves around the lives of the main characters:
Jim Stephanidis (Giannopoulos), his cousin Memo (Kapiniaris) and their friends, including the legendary Effie (effiegoodthanks, Mary Coustas)
The show celebrates the Greek-Australian identity through exaggerated stereotypes, poking fun at the clash between traditional Greek values and Australian culture using clever wordplay, physical humor, and over-the-top character portrayals.
The show also relies on situational comedy, with absurd situations and misunderstandings driving much of the humor.
Amidst the chaos, âAcropolis Nowâ explores themes of Greek-Australian identity, immigrant experiences, and the love of coffee and food.
Enjoyed consuming this piece of Wog Media heaps! ΊαΜÏαÏÏÎčÎșÏÏ
Wog Media Sunday Spotlight #2: Looking for Alibrandi (2000) dir. Kate Woods, writ. Melina Marchetta
Welcome to the second instalment of wog media spotlights, every Sunday on wogism.blog
This week I revisited an iconic Australian film, set in 1990s Sydney, in areas such as the inner-western suburb of Glebe and the Eastern Suburbs.
The film is titled, Looking for Alibrandi (2000)
Directed by Kate Woods and written by Melina Marchetta, and adapted from her 1992 novel of the same name.
Looking for Alibrandi is a coming-of-age film following the life of Italian-Australian teenager, Josephine âJosieâ Alibrandi (Pia Miranda) in her final year of high school.
Josie is working towards gaining a place at the University of Sydney after she graduates from all-girls catholic school St. Marthaâs, alongside being ethnic in Australia, managing relationships with boys, and meeting her estranged father unexpectedly.
The film touches on the Italian migrant narrative and subsequent Italian-Australian identity by showcasing three generations of women with a complex family history as they attempt to manage the infamous âAlibrandi curseâ.
âListen, the poor marry the poor, the wogs marry the wogs.
The Westies marry the Westies, and North Shore marry the North Shore.
Sometimes they cross breed though and marry into the Eastern Suburbs.â
This #sicilian informed film contains symbols, language, and cultural practices that many in the Italian-Australian community can recognise immediately.
The soundtrack boasts a variety of excellent tunes, namely âTintarella di Lunaâ by Mina.
Looking for Alibrandi is available on Netflix and SBS On Demand.
Wog Media Sunday Spotlight #1: Moving Out (dir. Michael Pattinson)
Welcome to the first instalment of wog media spotlights, now every Sunday on wogism.blog
I had the great, great pleasure of stumbling across an Australian film shot in the inner north of Melbourne titled Moving Out from 1983.
Moving Out is a film about a young Italian-Australian adolescent, Gino, directed by Michael Pattinson.
Gino (Vince Colosimo) navigates being ItalianâŠand Australian. As he chooses his mates and being Aussie over âspeaking wogâ, he has choices to make in his teenage years at school, while his family is âshiftingâ from North Fitzroy to Doncaster.
This #calabrese informed film has a lot of relatable content for many, with a story a lot of 1st generation wogs can very much relate to.
âThereâs friends,
thereâs girls,
thereâs fun
âŠand thereâs a time for Moving Out.â
Recommend this film to anyone to see through a historical Melbourne Italian-Australian niche wog lens.
âFrom Bean to Cupâ: Nic Salernoâs âEspresso Chroniclesâ and the love of specialty coffee in Australia.
Hey all! Together with the blogâs first guest, I have brewed something special for you.
Grab your favourite caffeinated beverage and allow me to introduce you to the first of many collaborations with thought leaders, business owners and individuals from the Southern European and Middle Eastern diaspora community.
The aim of working with fellow wogs is to highlight those who are making waves and leading the pack in what is the next generation of wog influence (wogfluence?) in Australia.
Without further ado, I introduce to you Nic Salerno - Owner & Coffee Enthusiast at Espresso Chronicles.
Espresso Chronicles operates via e-commerce and is founded by Nicâs Coffee enthusiasm and entrepreneurship, informed by Italian-Australian heritage, and based in Sydney, Australia.
From recommending the âBest Brew in Townâ, a collection of the best Cafes in Sydney to something more personal; a reel where Nic sits down with his Nonno to get his valued opinion on Perfetto Moka Hazelnut by Bialetti.
Nic's dedication to Coffee is evident in all facets of his business endeavour.
I came across Espresso Chronicles by participating in the brandâs regular Tik Tok lives earlier this year in March.
"Espresso Chronicles is not just a business, we are dedicated Coffee enthusiasts with a pure passion for the Coffee community."
- Nic Salerno, Owner & Coffee Enthusiast
What captivated me the most was watching Nic come to life in the live sessions, which showcased an interactive and educational approach to coffee with an impeccable set design (you can see his marketing influence shine here), and an opportunity to discuss what coffee means for the viewers.
This really gave me an insight into Nicâs world and everything that made him tick and light up. A true joy to watch, in which he deploys a natural and relatable live stream approach to his viewers and loyal followers.
The business sells an array of items such as Coffee, Coffee Accessories and Coffee Makers including Grinders, Moka Pots, Cups & Christmas Specialty items (i.e. Panettone)
Products are sold online and are shipped nationwide, to New Zealand and selected international countries.
Espresso Chronicles aims to be a hub for anything coffee-related (not just product specific).
I chose to speak to Nic and this business due to the intent and meaningful story that informs the consumer and enthusiast on how he creates a hub for fellow coffee enthusiasts and showcases his passion for doing what truly makes you proud to represent culture (in your own special way).
In sitting down with Nic one-on-one, I was able to truly understand and immerse myself in his passion for coffee, in what has become a very personal experience for him.Â
Growing up in an Italian household, coffee was at the centrepiece of every discussion and family visit.
âCoffee is the beverage that brings us together and evokes unity,â Nic relayed, and I 100% agree.
Initially, going into coffee was not something on Nicâs radar, as his expertise lies in Marketing, Project Management and Buying, with a degree in Counselling in his back pocket also.
As Nic said, âThrough life experiences, we naturally evolve into our true selves.â
The business evolved out of Nicâs true love and passion for espresso, in what became a joke amongst friends with the nickname âMr Espresso.â
Nic became quite known for ordering his signature coffee whilst out and slowly the business morphed into a community of that same passion.
Through the creation of Espresso Chronicles, Nic has enabled a community of individuals with a special passion for the iconic (and very Italian) beverage and its methodology.
Itâs been an amazing journey to see Nic and Espresso Chronicles grow in the 2 years of activation, which I have felt very privileged to have been a part of in the very initial stages as a customer and now, a collaborator.
I want to highlight that not only can wogs be proud of their heritage, and in Nicâs instance coffee, but through professionalism, passion and business expertise he has been able to create something that brings heritage and identity into play, in his own way.
Being proud of your roots is what makes us who we are and forms the fabric of our identity and leaning into where we are from and enhancing our identity's core values, makes us true representations of our higher self.
Drawing inspiration from origins is something to note here, and resonates well with the wogism ethos.
I want to thank Nic for his interest and time in being involved in the first wogism feature and collaboration.
Itâs been a joy and pleasure to get to know him and I look forward to seeing what he has in store for Espresso Chronicles and his own journey in the coming months/years!
Should you have any questions or inquiries you can reach Espresso Chronicles on Instagram, Tik Tok and the Web.
Nic also writes a dedicated blog named âEC Coffee Breakâ which I urge you to give it a read; my favourite post would be How-To Make the Perfect Moka Coffee.
On a yearly basis, many individuals across the various Italian-Australian communities near and far gather to partake in the tradition of making sausages (salsicce).
A combination of smells, textures and techniques, these homemade treasures are made with both love and rigorous methodology.
The sausages are not only a staple of traditional Italian food, but also something to which many in the community look at with fondness and self-identification.
Sausages can be cooked in or out of the skin but also can be dried out to form a salame - in my family we prepare and eat the sausages in both ways.
While cooking sausages occurs soon after they are made, the salame comes after a period of hanging the sausages to air-dry.
Once air-dried to the correct firmness, we place them in vacuum-sealed pouches to preserve them for as long as possible.
I had the pleasure this year to document the process in the form of photos, videos and Instagram stories. I also put together a reel which I found is a great way to give a quick and fun audio-visual snapshot.
If you have any questions about making salsicce feel free to ask questions via Instagram or email.
In this post I give you even more insight to the identity that informs the content of wogism.blog
In the history of Italy, we have a term to signal the events both political and cultural that take place after wars; âdopoguerraâ (post-war).
The âdopoguerraâ I am discussing denotes the second of its kind (âsecondoâ) in Italy, the first one being after World War I.
This post-war period indicates a time in Italian history which lasted from 1945 to the 1960s. It signified the rebuilding of the Italian peninsula and all its peoples to rise from the ashes of military and political conflict.
With this effort, some were not eager to stick around for itâŠ
Now, from my research, âdopoguerraâ put Italy in a position of great division initially but ultimately ending (after a while) with an economic boom.
The country had endured not only the world war, shifting sides as it is commonly known, but had also undergone a period of civil war towards the end of the former. These concepts of unrest not only created conflict of the state but an imbalance in la patria.
The end of the war had produced what historians say are several entities which were fragments and overlaps of power: the remnants of the monarchy (la monarchia di Savoia) and its government, the occupation government of the Allies, and areas in control by the National Liberation Committees (Comitato di Liberazione Nazionale).
Together with division amongst its people, Italy had the displeasure of a destroyed economy and resentment towards the monarchy for endorsing the Fascist regime for the previous twenty years.
With a bad taste in its mouth, Italy became ambitious and looked to the horizon; la repubblica.
After an institutional referendum, the Italian Republic was born in 1946.
A new country with little promise, Italians started to think long-term; for a new home.
Between 1946 and 1976, an estimated 7.4 million Italians left from mezzogiorno (southern Italy).
Some chose to embark on journeys via boat and arrived in Melbourne to create a new life being welcomed with the open arms and open-door of Australia.
An estimated 338,624 Italian migrants between 1951 and 1972 chose the same landing.
This demographic includes my grandparents, Italians from Central and Southern Italy who now call Australia home.
What they lacked in material belongings they made up for with great courage and bravery to venture into a world they had only heard about.
My story began in remote villages in a land where its citizens did not foresee their future, and now enjoys a home; in the suburbs of what is now a global city with access to first-world democracy, universal healthcare and an abundance of opportunity.
