CATANIA, SICILY—The recording encourages tour bus passengers to look at the fountain next to the Stazione di Catania Centrale, one of Sicily’s main train stations.
It depicts the abduction of the nymph Proserpina by Pluto, intent on taking her to the underworld. She is simultaneously struggling against and succumbing to his overpowering strength. In mythology, she will eventually — but only temporarily — be restored to the world above.
Draped on the bushes surrounding the fountain are wet clothes, likely washed in the fountain. Sitting on benches nearby are teenage boys, who look out of place.
They are.