Susan Stephens' Writing Diary

Here we are in Siena... a most exquisite ancient Italian city founded by the Romans in the time of Octavian Augustus. This explains one of the symbols shown on the heraldic arms taken by the medieval town... the she-wolf feeding Romulus and Remus.

You see me standing in the Piazza del Campo where the Palio horse race assembles. I would recommend at least a few days in Siena if your are to appreciate the atmosphere and artistic riches of this wonderful place.

If you book far enough in advance you may be lucky enough to snag a room to watch the world famous Palio race. The whole town is transformed for the Palio as this horse race takes place through the streets of Siena. There is much pageantry with parades through the streets, musicians in historical costume, and flags and banners hanging from every building. It is easy to think yourself back in another age and the rivalry between the opposing teams is intense.
The prize, the Palio, is a silk banner painted by both famous Italian and foreign artists and is given to the winning group or team... and not just the jockeys are judged, but their supporters... for their behaviour and for the skill of their musicians, their costumes and the artistry of the men who bear their banners.

I wonder if you like me yearn for the magic of this ancient time to touch our lives and make us strive for excellence and to believe always in the power not just of the individual, but of the team.

Love to all, and happy reading everyone!

Susan

And tomorrow I promise there's going to be a competition question to win a signed copy of my Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice nominated book, The Sheikh's Captive Bride , and so I look forward to talking to you again tomorrow!
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