When Nino (ndaversa) is asked what his background is, he says his answer is simple: Greek-Italian.
Do you speak either? Did your parents speak either?
No, I don't. My mom spoke Macedonian, but her parents also spoke fluent English. My Greek grandparents lived in a part of Toronto that wasn't full of Greeks, and worked lots of people who spoke other languages, so they learned perfect English. It was great for me when I was young, because I could talk to them easily, but now I wish I learned Macedonian.
My other grandparents didn't have such great English because they lived in an Italian neighbourhood. No need for English there. (laughs)
Did you learn much about Macedonian/Greek culture?
I don't know too much, actually.
How do you feel about Alexander the Great? Is he Macedonian or Greek?
I don't get involved in these politics. No way. No comment on this.
Any Macedonian food faves?
I don't know Macedonian food from Greek. This is just like the politics! Stop it. (angry eyebrows)
Since your wife is Italian, will your son learn Italian?
Um, no? I mean, I don't know any. Maybe if we put him in Italian school.
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Culture Bites
Non-FictionI work with a bunch of very interesting people who come from all over. What do they think of their culture? Their parents' culture? Read their colourful stories and help me prove to them that it's more than just my curiosity that makes talking about...
