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Discussion in the Park
Discussion in the Park
JimiRose


Photograph Information Photographer's Comments
Date Uploaded: Apr 9, 2008

Viewed: 235
Comments: 8
Favorites: 0

 POMT day 9.

Can I start off by registering once again my excitement...

Waaaayheeeey!!! I won a ribbon!!

Ahem... and now the story. It may seem be a stereotypical scene, but seeing groups of the ageing generation standing around gesticulating at each other is extremely common in Italy. In the same way that in many countries around the world there seems to be a prevalence of kids hanging out on street corners, in Italy it is in fact the over 50s that are "retaking the streets".

There are a couple of reasons for this, one is the ancient tradition of the Piazza which exists throughout Italy. Piazzas have always been a central meeting point for the town, where friends were made, relationships blossomed and business was negotiated. Long before the time of telecommunication these were the centres of social activity, and continue to be today. This tradition is closer to the hearts of the older generation, not being so reliant on mobile phones.

The second and more disturbing reason is that Italy has a dying population. The fact that the birth rate is lower than the death rate combined with the relative longevity of Italians means the population as a whole is very old. Although for the time being this isn't a massive problem, it could become a serious issue in the next 20 years if nothing is done to encourage population growth.

p.s This -> is the tree in the background!

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AuthorThread
 04/17/2008 04:01:20 PM
Such a fascinating story to go with the picture. I like the lively discussion and especially the fact their mode of transportation.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 04/16/2008 11:51:49 AM
Great job catching this interaction between obvious friends and neighbors. Love the light.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 04/13/2008 02:23:17 AM
The same is true in Germany to an extent - there is a larger older population here, and they tend to get out and about, congregating in city and town centers to catch up or just watch the day go by. This is a good capture to tell your story.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 04/10/2008 12:01:24 AM
SUPER...
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 04/09/2008 11:34:31 PM
YOU DESERVE MANY RIBBONS!

I think you're AWESOME and I'm so very pleased for you.

THIS ROCKS!
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 04/09/2008 10:19:31 PM
Wonderful candid! B&W was a very good choice for this shot
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 04/09/2008 08:30:15 PM
Awesome candid...makes me want to be the fly on the wall to hear what they are talking about so intently! :)
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 04/09/2008 10:52:26 AM
I like how everyone is telling a story. NICE!!
  Photographer found comment helpful.


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