Who can tell from the air what a mysterious and wonderful place Venice can be, she said, my friend Pam, in a comment on this blog.
Yes, I thought. Yes. It is a perfect description of this beautiful floating city, with its bridges and waterways, gondolas and oars. Worn and knowing, Venice makes no apologies for the secrets she keeps. They waft through the alleyways, slipping quietly behind shadows, tucking under eaves, fading just out view as the visitor rounds the corner.
They linger there, no doubt, waiting and watching. You know it.
You feel it.
What’s more, you want to be a part of it, the mystery that is Venice. Spend an afternoon in the ancient city and your own secrets knock at the door, longing to come out, and play.
secrets of Venice, just out of view
one of a thousand alleyways
along the canals
shadows and light
the mouth of secret accusations, Doge's Palace
She pulled me into her lair, this gorgeous city, and as Day Four dawned, the last thing I wanted to do was leave. But Como called. And so we headed North.
earlier posts on Venice:
Did We Ever: Eating and Drinking in Venice
Looking at your pictures (which are terrific!), I think I finally identified my frustration with my painting of Venice. I have WAY too limited a skill with a paint brush to even attempt to capture the beauty of the place. The more I tried, the more I hated it. The painting, not Venice! For me it may best be left to memories and good photography. Alas.
I can’t wait to see your Venice painting again. I loved it before, and I’m sure my new appreciation will only make it more beautiful.