My Perugia

On Perugia's hills, I found my way,

When summer grudgigly left and autumn held sway.

A city adorned in history's embrace,

Where I learned the language, with a hesitant pace.

Through narrow streets, I wandered in awe,

Past ancient arches, with stories to thaw.

Cobblestone pathways whispered tales untold,

As I soaked in the beauty, a sight to behold.

In the autumn's blush, the city transformed,

Golden hues painted, as nature adorned.

Leaves rustled beneath my eager feet,

As I delved into Italian, a language sweet.

Through the language school, I embarked on a quest,

To grasp the words, to give my best.

With patient teachers, their guidance profound,

I navigated verbs, as my confidence found.

Beneath Perugia's skies, gray and serene,

I learned the phrases, the grammar routine.

Conjugating verbs, conjugating dreams,

Fostering friendships, bridging cultural streams.

Winter descended with a gentle grace,

Whispering tales of an ancient place.

Frost-kissed mornings, a chill in the air,

Yet warmth resided in friendships we shared.

In cozy bars, we sipped hot caffè,

Laughing and learning, our worries at bay.

Pronouncing each word with fervent desire,

Kindling a passion, a language on fire.

Perugia, you witnessed my humble start,

Nurturing dreams within your ancient heart.

Through strolls on Corso Vannucci's grand stage,

I wove memories, page by page.

As the months waned, and my time grew near,

Nostalgia wrapped around, a bittersweet veneer.

For Perugia, you hold a piece of my soul,

Etched in memories, as the seasons unroll.

Oh, Perugia, where I first began,

Learning the language, embracing a plan.

In the autumn's warmth and winter's embrace,

You gifted me moments, I'll forever trace.

Though distance separates us, a longing remains,

To stroll your streets, where nostalgia sustains.

Perugia, my dear, forever I'll yearn,

For lessons learnt, and my beloved teachers, I'll someday return.

A chapter of life, engraved in my core,

Perugia, you'll be cherished evermore.

Nostalgia's symphony, forever we'll partake,

In the echoes of memories, for old times' sake.

© Uche Aneke (2023)