Enrico Maso, translated into English by Ruth Stephens
Chapter 3 – Slowfood In A Hurry
Nebo has found his way into a wardrobe and is busy pulling out ‘his’ travel cushion. He then fetches his leash and looks at his master.
“Ok, ok,” laughs Gianni, “you can come this time, my useless dog!”
In fact, the dog could be useful as an important element of disguise: accompanied by his dog, Gianni will be able to pass himself off as a normal visitor to the food fairs. Clothes, car, physical appearance… nothing at all to indicate that he’s really a journalist from a national newspaper!
A couple of days later they are ready to go. Gianni and Nebo head north and are soon following signs to a purple onion festa. According to the festa promoters, purple onions are supposed to be a typical product but Gianni has never heard of them. Strange, he is usually well-informed on such things.
Spurred by curiosity and by his suspicions, Gianni decides to begin his investigation right here at this fair. On arrival, everything seems to be well-organized. There are plenty of parking spaces and the festa is being held in a leafy park. There are lots of stands, and even a stage for music groups. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial.
Gianni forgets his misgivings and orders something to eat. The prices are honest, even a little too honest. But looking at the menu, it’s apparent that some of the dishes will turn out to have been frozen.
“Slowfood seems to be a little shaky here,” thinks Gianni.
After the meal, on a walk with Nebo, Gianni discovers a secondary access road to the fair. Different vans are coming and going and Gianni realizes that the food must have been cooked elsewhere.
“Aha, my friends, so this is what you mean by slowfood! With meals coming from goodness knows where?”
Gianni already has an idea for the title of Saturday’s article: “Slowfood on wheels!”
At the weekend, the article is published. Gianni is driving to his next destination when his mobile rings.