"Poetry happens in the here and now," says the Bologna-born man. Today Luca is sitting on the edge of Piazza Maggiore under the arcades in the sunlight, waiting for people who might need some cheering up. "Would you like a poem that I will write for you?" This direct, surprising and unusual question can throw everyday life off course for a moment. And clear your head. Martha is pleased about the unplanned meeting with Luca: the two know each other from Piazza Maggiore, and Luca has already written her a poem a few times. Baci, Baci, a quick chat, the two of them laugh together. Because she only has a little time today, they agree to meet the next day. Martha disappears in a hurry between the people who are pushing their way through the narrow alley.

The open space of the square attracts tourists from the shadows into the light. Luca Gamberini is sitting casually on the steps under the arcades and is talking to two young Americans studying in Bologna. He likes to talk to people, hear their stories and help the odd passer-by to get over a bad day with a few well-considered lines. He writes his poems as quickly as the Italians drink their espresso, hence the name: Espresso Poetry. Gamberini sets his letters, syllables and words to the rhythm of the city and types them directly into the keyboard of his Olivetti. Every day the young banker writes at least one poem, which he then passes on. His words are transformed into a gesture of communion. "I firmly believe that poetry produces beauty that everyone should be able to enjoy. And I believe that making someone smile is a good thing."