Follow the Reader: Swoon over a tune about the Sorrento moon

I’ve always loved Tina Arena’s song, Sorrento Moon. But after a holiday in Italy, it has a new meaning for me.

‘The moon was rising ... over Sorrento. I stood there transfixed.’

I’ve always loved Tina Arena’s song, Sorrento Moon. It’s about Sorrento in Victoria. But after a holiday on the Isle of Capri, in Italy, it has a new meaning for me.

Travelling to Capri was an adventure. Naples has no apparent road rules and our taxi driver pushed this to the limit. He dived in and out of the traffic like a racing driver — all the while pointing out his city’s attractions. Then we caught the ferry to spectacular Capri. Most tourists stay in hotels on the top of the island. Our accommodation was directly above restaurants surrounding the harbour and had an amazing view.

Sitting on the terrace drinking a glass of wine, watching the boats come and go was magic. An old Italian gentleman carrying freshly picked basil responded to my admiration with, “Grew myself, grew myself.” A few minutes later he reappeared with a huge bunch for me. Tea that night was fresh pasta, sensational Sorrento tomatoes, Napoli sausage and basil. Delicious.

We mainly explored the island, but also scheduled a tour of the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii, catching the ferry to Sorrento and travelling the spectacular road to Positano. On the way we tried the local specialty — lemon granita. It was very refreshing.

We then travelled to Pompeii and spent a hot afternoon admiring its treasures. After a wonderful day, our driver deposited us at the Sorrento ferry terminal. Shock, horror. The next ferry was twice as expensive as the last one for the day. We therefore decided to have dinner in Sorrento and catch the final ferry.

After a disappointing meal of crumbed (frozen) fish we boarded the ferry. I immediately took up my favourite position at the stern, as we cruised out of the harbour. On our left were the lights of a cruise ship. On our right were the twinkling lights of Sorrento — and something very special. The moon was rising ... over Sorrento. I stood there transfixed. In my mind played Tina Arena’s song, inspiring a memory I will never forget:

It’s a long way from paradise to ordinary

Picture us just standing there, we didn’t have a care …

By the sweet Sorrento moon.

I remember.

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