I am a writer; a storyteller. I write for and about people in unusual situations and remarkable circumstances. And the locals of Venice are in an unusual situation.

Their home increasingly essentialized, commercialized, and exploited; Their lifestyles marketed. And so, this entry is in many ways a continuation of the entry on essentialism. But I’ve never been to Venice, so I may very well be wrong. But, if the people of Venice would welcome me, I wish to know the truth. I want to tell their story.

Hypothetically, I’d begin on the other side: as a tourist. I’d visit the popular tourist spots – the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, Libreria Acqua Alta, and so that I can experience Venice as a traveler, contextualize my purpose, and recognize the city from my audience’s perspective.

Then, I’d remove myself as much as possible from these shoes. Explore. Compare. Examine all the nooks and crannies tourists typically sidestep. And finally, not just hear, but listen – to the ebb and flow of the canals; to the faraway roars of touring crowds; and to those kind enough to share their stories, stories that answer questions avoided and unasked.

In essence, I want to see the city as the world sees it, and then see the city the way it wants to be seen. The stories I am hoping for are stories that respond to tourism, the threat of climate change, and the essence of Venice. But all stories are an opportunity to improve lives.

And, as much, telling theses stories is – perhaps more than an opportunity – a responsibility.