Back to Global Conversations 2.08: Frances Mayes, Author
Frances Mayes sits down with Melissa Biggs Bradley to talk about her latest books, how Under the Tuscan Sun really came to be, how to feel at home (fast) when you travel; plus, the Italian region that has the most prized place in her heart, what Rome is like without the crowds and why Italy’s small towns make for the most magical discoveries.
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Episode Guide
“I think I could write about Italy for the rest of my life,” says Frances Mayes. And for millions of readers around the world, who’ve adored her books Under the Tuscan Sun and Bella Tuscany, that would be just fine. But listen to Frances speak about her adopted home during our conversation, and you’ll feel inspired to explore Italy, as Frances continues to do every chance she gets.
Her love for Italy and Italians is infectious. You can hear the affection and all that she has for them in her voice, along with her soft Southern accent. Frances grew up in a very small town in Georgia where the only thing there was to do was read, she says. Reading led to writing, but along the way, college art history classes eventually led to a trip to Italy to see Renaissance art in person and a new era began in Frances’s life. “My connection with Italy was pretty immediate,” she says. “And every time I go, I wanna kiss the ground. It’s just endlessly alluring to me.”
To her and many others. Italy is the ultimate dream destination, but listen to Frances as she talks about her new discoveries and familiar favorite spots, and you’ll wanna kiss the Italian earth too, as soon as you can.
