Artists need inspiration, and nourishment, and community, and above all– time.  Civitella provides all of these, in the mysterious, gorgeous environment of a medieval castle.  I wrote for nine hours a day, without the distractions of the world.  And then emerged at twilight to celebrate, and be celebrated by, a family of artists, writers, and composers from around the world, around a table abundant with food and wine.  Some evenings the conversations went deep into the night.  I arose the next morning inspired, refreshed, amazed– and ready to get back to work.  Civitella was a dream from which I did not want to wake.  Which is fine, because I don’t think I ever really will.  I will carry this dream in my heart the rest of my days.