The morning coffee

In this section I’m pleased to introduce Gianna Della Valle: an Italian who has lived abroad for more than 20 years. She has made a study of how to bring elements of the Italian way of life into her adopted, frenetic homeland.

The morning coffee is a ritual that celebrates the bravery, self-discipline, and sacrifice you are making to get out of bed and face the world—all of your own free will. You could have stayed in, slept a bit longer, or entertained other thoughts with your partner. But no. You got up, washed, dressed, and went out. It is a very delicate moment—you need to be celebrated and supported in the day’s first bow to your duties.

That’s why coffee shops were invented in Italy. The “barman” is performing the highest-level duty to society. Like a midwife, he facilitates your daily entry into the world. He understands that your private space should not be disturbed with silly things like asking what you want, and, abomination, asking for your name. The barman knows you intimately and can detect your innermost state. He will scrutinize your face and decide whether to ask you “il solito?” (the usual?) if he feels you are approachable, or simply get on with it and serve your favorite combination coffee and pastry if you’re seeming too delicate for questions that morning. The world has an order that needs to be respected. For that moment, you are at the center of that world and that order.

The barman then will engage you tactfully in a conversation that is meant to be uplifting and get you out of the natural grumpiness your situation warrants (you just got out of bed, remember).

Then the smell hits. And the burst of caffeine. Your energy level spikes. You are ready for your day. Mission accomplished.

Sorry mass coffee chains, you simply do not get it. I don’t want you asking my name. I don’t want paper cups. I don’t want to have to stand in line.

But that’s ok. I am not at the center of the world. I am just a cog in the system. It rains and I got here after a long commute. Another shit day.