The men of Nicolosi, Sicily

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While walking around I happened to come across a group of older men, doing what most do here: just sitting back comfortably in the arms of time, adoring moments as if each passing moment is a flower to be placed in the vase of life.

One of them called me over—I was not going to take their photos!—I was just walking by taking photos of houses and doors. But I went over because his eyes reminded me of my grandfather on my father’s side, although this man’s (I believe he is in the second photograph) are an electric blue and can hold the sea to a draw. My grandfather’s were more green and hazel but his skin tone, demenaor, and energy reminded me of my late grandfather, although my grandfather was much taller (which can’t really be compared from this portrait).

I went up to him and others.  We did our best to communicate without words (they didn’t speak English and I don’t speak Italian). I think we all did just fine. The photos were real quick snap shots—I was not expecting the exchange nor was I expecting to take official “portraits.”  They were convinced I was from Sicily even if not from Nicolosi given this is a small town and every one knows every other person. They liked that I was taking photos of parts of their town no one even considers beautiful (even their own) until one finally gets to their age.

If you can really see what needs to be seen, you can feel what needs to be felt, and the eyes say plenty.

I don’t think most of us know how to really look one another in the eye.
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8 responses to “The men of Nicolosi, Sicily”

  1. Katherine Poythress says:
    April 9, 2011 at 4:59 pm

    Oh Annie, I LOVE this. They are so darling, and the whole exchange/interaction is just precious. What a special experience.

  2. Jose DiMauro says:
    June 2, 2011 at 5:06 pm

    My parents were born at Nicolosi and I had been there. The pictures are wonderful and capture the spirit of the people. They are hard working people who did the best they could. Thank you for sharing the pictures and God bless you.

  3. Michael Purkey says:
    February 15, 2012 at 8:11 am

    Wonderful photo’s and great description. I have spent a lot of time in Nicolosi and love the city and it’s people.

  4. Ellen DuPont says:
    November 14, 2012 at 10:28 am

    WhaT great pictures! You have a real eye. So charming.
    In the next town, and thinking of going t nicolosi…

    • annie says:
      November 14, 2012 at 10:58 am

      hello and thanks for stopping by. I am so glad I shared those photos. It is a gem! Must go if you can. : )

      Cheers.

      ~a.q.s.

  5. Margie Miklas says:
    February 5, 2013 at 2:04 pm

    What a great post and I love your photos. I have not been able to find much on this little town but you have an eye for capturing its beauty/ I loved the post with all the photos of the doors too!
    Thank you!