In Verona, Italy, letters to Juliet get real replies! Although Juliet Capulet may have been a literary figure, thousands of people still do write letters seeking advice or just to pour their hearts out.
How did it all start? According to Verona-based art historian Ceil Friedman, there were late 19th century photographs that indicated visitors were leaving notes at Juliet's symbolic tomb. Ettore Solimani, who was the tomb's custodian for two decades began responding to the letters and signing them of as "Juliet's secretary". The news of these letters being replied sparked of more letters being written to Juliet. This phenomenon inspired Friedman to write a book "Letters To Juliet" with his sister Lise, which in turned inspired a film, based on the book.
Continuing where Ettore Solimani left of, there are now 15 self-appointed secretaries to Juliet who responds to the letters being addressed to Juliet. Some are addressed simply: Juliet, Verona, Italy.
Unfortunately, there are no examples of the letters being sent to Juliet. However, Eric D Snider of Film.com has put himself in Juliet's shoes and pretended if she had a newspaper column, what the letters and responses would be. It was a pretty interesting read as he has creatively penned the problems and responses.
Dear Juliet, I am 13 years old. I like this boy at school who is a little older than me, and whose family my family doesn't like, on account of a long time ago they stole our land, or something. Whatevs. My mom and dad don't want me to date him, but I looooooove him!!!!! We are thinking of running away together. What do you think? Eloping in England Dear Eloping, Hast thy beloved an occupation of employment? Hast thou money with which to purchase food and lodging? Nay, it mattereth not! For thy love shall give thee sustenance, and thy kisses shall put a roof over thy head. xoxo, Juliet Dear Juliet, My boyfriend likes to climb up to the balcony outside my bedroom and whisper sweet nothings to me when my parents think I'm asleep. The problem is that I think my nurse is starting to catch on. How can I be sure she won't tell on me? Secretive in Sicily Dear Secretive, If she be thy nurse, then she is beholden to keep thy secrets, like unto a slave. Threaten her with grave consequences if thy secrets she tell, and pay no heed to thy friends who ask why thou still hast a nurse when thou art a teenager. xoxo, Juliet "Letters To Juliet" starring Amanda Seyfried will be in cinemas beginning 20 May 2010!
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