BocelliOnline

[Gladys]

Can you relate to a person who would give up his eyes to secure a career, or a woman, give up her virtue to get ahead. What is more offensive, self-mutilation or moral depravity or are they one in the same. Yes, the castrati had no choice, but if they did, could you relate to their choice.

[Marilynn]

I have observed that when someone says something about Andrea that really is not at all flattering he tends to show that person how wrong they are. Maybe he is doing thus with this baritone singer that is appearing with him on this tour...by the way which orchestra is appearing with Andrea on the June Tour???

[Gladys]

The question is really an ugly variation on a familiar, ethical theme - do the ends justify the means, the ends here being a successful career. While the jockey and the ballerina may use starvation and/or dangerous weight manipulation to get ahead in their fields, the question put to this person was choosing grotesque disability or success. The only way to deal with that question is to side step it and address the issue of how the situation added to the success in their careers. I can't relate to anyone who would choose a major disability, such as the loss of mobility or one of their senses to get ahead.

Perhaps another consideration between these two men - what is worse, being physically grotesque or being dependent. Andrea is dependent but to what extent does his appearance help others to recognize and reward his talent while this man, his stature and his flipper like arms, may put people off, whatever the sound of his voice. Perhaps this is causing resentment on his part. Would he chose Andrea's situation - dependence - to insure the same level of success that Andrea enjoys.

[kathanne]

I am not surprised you have had to answer your own question in away Gladys. I was just replying to ask if you were going for a record - The most profound Question Ever to be Asked on a Fan Website or something of that nature. I wondered who would be the first brave soul to attempt it. Your question probably deserves a lot more consideration but maybe you have to be driven or motivated to the same extent as those who do these things to actually relate to them. I can accept that some people do these things or would do them if they could , but this is not the same as relating to them. I have to say though, I would not be shocked or outraged by any of these things. That probably says a great deal about me so i won't continue with this as people don't come here to read about the workings of my mind. I will look forward to reading the views of others on this.

[kathanne]

This discussion has been moving so quickly that between my recent technical difficulties and the time difference I've found it very difficult to keep up.So many people have made so many interesting points I just have to reply to a few at least. Firstly; Hi Lindy . Yes doesn't Andrea have an expressive face - people are always commenting about his face lighting up - very unusual for a blind person. Rosie;you must tell me more about the horrible Barbara interviewer person - I understand Lindy has a rifle? Marilynn, Yes interviews with Andrea usually say more about the Interviewer than the Interviwee. I thought it was bad enough in the Uk but at least he has only had to put up with vapidity and thoughtlessness here. I agree that he has his own way of dealing with these situations very succcessfully. Fantom; I thought one of my "disappeared posts had come to light when I read yours about the "Two Andrea's" Do you have psychic powers. Yours was much more coherent,of course, but I think we were writing at the same time. Phew!!! Goodnight America.

[MK]

I just read the article on Thomas Quasthoff. What stood out was the description of his singing as being "a religious experience" to his fans. He has to be judged on voice alone. Middle aged women can't have fantasy's about being wrapped in his "arms". Walking hand in hand down the street? What a difference from how we "see" Andrea.

[Gladys]

[Anna in NY]

[kathanne]

I am going away for a while ,partly to escape the 'World Cup" mania affecting the UK. I don't feel that we, in the UK , handle this well, but that's another story. Before I go I would like to thank everyone for sharing their thoughts on this forum. I have really enjoyed reading them over the last few weeks or however long it has been. So reassuring too.I know I am not alone or some sort of freak when so many others share my views. I would particularly like to thank Rosied, a wise compassionate lady who, in spite of being a most devoted fan, manages to keep it all in perpective and to retain her sense of humour. I also feel that I owe a lot to Gladys. Her contributions have caused me to dust off parts of my brain left to gather cobwebs for years. Some of them may still be inworking order. I have learnt a lot about myself lately Gladys, yes these discussions have been "catalystic '. Thank you. Best wishes to all who will be attending the concerts. I look forward to reading all about it when I get back.

[Anna in NY]

[Bocellifan4ever]

[rosied]

Re: Barbara Walters:

Kathanne....Barbara Walters does enjoy the admiration of the American public and the world.... AND mine! Having met her in person and speaking briefly to her..I can attest to the fact that she is a very warm and friendly woman.
In an effort not to make my post toooo long I sometimes don't make myself clear and find that I have to come back and try to do so, because someone misunderstands my brief remarks that in this case, seemed to only critize her.
In the interview that I refer to, it was obvious that she admires everything about Andrea. And I know he is aware of her reputation as a respected "elderstateswoman" of the press. However classy (and she is!) I was referring ONLY to this ONE question...that as far as I know has never been so pointedly asked. AND she has been known to make her subjects cry because of some of the questions she asks. Thus, her reputation for being able to "get to the people she interviews".. Obviously this makes her a standout in her profession. Because, "inquiring minds want to know" as they say .....this is their job. After all, HERE WE ARE! Right??? Other than this one question the interview as a whole was conducted with the utmost respect for Andrea.

However, I stand by my original statement....I think she wanted to live up to her reputation for getting to a place with Andrea that no one had ever been able to draw him out. In this case with Andrea...I believe she didn't exactly get the answers and reaction she was going for....that's why I said he "kept his cool" and gave her the same answer he has given many times when questions about his disablity are asked.

She's "in love" with Andrea, just like the rest of us....at the close of the interview she asked him sweetly...."Do you care that I've fallen in love with you??"

[Em]

A few posts ago the discussion was concerning the possibilties of sight, highlighed mainly by Glady's inquiring mind, which was very stimunlating.
The thought of restored sight in Andrea's case,brings me to tears of humnilty and it could very well happen in the not too distant future....I wonder his thoughts..it would change everything. At the most, I can foresee him on his knees, crying in gratutide,as I would do
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What you truly believe of another, you awaken within them

[Anna in NY]

Our discussions that branched off into Saints has been split from this thread to Ruota Libera. Feel free to continue posting there.
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Beddu Turridu !!!!!!!!!!!!