An Ode to Milan's Summer Silence

For years, the great Milanese summer exodus felt like a disruption. Streets emptying, independent shops pulling down their shutters, the beloved local pasticceria suddenly dark, the neighborhood alimentari silent. It was an inconvenience, a pause in the city's vibrant hum that I used to find, well, disruptive. But over time, my perspective has shifted. Dramatically. Now, as August approaches and the city begins its annual, graceful quietude, I find myself anticipating it with a deep sense of appreciation. Those handwritten notes taped to the doors, advising customers of a two-week, three-week, or even month-long summer closure – I used to read them with disappointment. But now, they feel like personal post-it notes to the community, reflecting the truly intimate and personal aspect of these neighborhood businesses and the quarters they serve.

The silence that descends upon Milan during these months, the ghostly emptiness of streets usually bustling with life, has become a cherished reminder. It's a reminder that this city is still fiercely holding onto its soul despite the rapid mushrooming of faceless chain stores in its city center. At the thought of the creeping ubiquity of the Amazon cartel of grocers and hairdressers that I increasingly bumped into when I was in London, I am relieved that Milan's local businesses are still here. They're simply taking a well-deserved summer break. They're not gone forever, not yet! And for that, I am profoundly thankful.

When I walk these hushed streets, past closed boutiques and cafes, I no longer feel the sting of inconvenience. Instead, I feel a quiet gratitude for their very existence. These independent spirits, these family-run establishments, these passionate artisans – they are the lifeblood of Milan's unique charm, its distinctive aesthetics, and its inimitable character. Their temporary absence only underscores how essential they are to the city's pulse.

So, if you find yourself in Milan this August, take a moment to appreciate the quiet. Walk these beautiful, temporarily empty avenues with a sense of peace and gratitude. Join me in raising an internal toast to the hidden lives behind those closed doors, knowing that their brief respite ensures Milan remains truly Milan. It’s a unique time to experience the city's authentic pulse, perhaps even visiting the Casa Musei to truly learn and find inspiration in Milan's soul during this serene, paused rhythm.