Finding a moment in Tito Tettamanti's agenda is impossible. It is not the first time that I try to interview him so I agree (even if reluctantly) to write him a letter. I want to imagine him sitting at his desk, tidy and without a computer, taking some time to tell about his intense life.
You were born in Lugano in the 30s, between the two great wars, where you breathed - I imagine - a particular atmosphere. How do you remember it?
“A quiet provincial town where everyone knew each other and had a nickname. The editor of a newspaper, for example, was “ul Giuvanin pena d'or” ».
His father was a banker, when most people still kept their little money under their mattress and worked the land. What do you remember of him, of his work?
«The seriousness and centrality of the work commitment. The sense of duty ».
And the figure of his mother? What importance did it have in his growth and in his life.
"Typical figure of the responsible petty bourgeoisie, committed to taking care of her husband, child and home with care".
What kind of child were you?
"A spoiled only child."
The name Tito, not very common, do you know why it was chosen?
“To tell the truth, I don't know… I should have asked my parents. Perhaps because it is short and with two "t's" ».
Did you choose to study law out of your sense of justice or for some other reason?
“I wouldn't bet that all those who have studied and study law do so out of a sense of justice. I definitely don't. They were studies to make a career in life ».
Was he doing well in school?
"I wasn't top of the class, but I've always done quite well."
Let's say that he had a very rapid course of study, was this attitude already part of his character? Was he always very determined?
"Nothing to do with character, but with lack of money, necessity sharpens commitment."
And how did politics come into your life? Why the most conservative party?
"Riccardo Rossi, a well-known politician, after a defeat by the conservatives in Lugano (1948) recommended to his son Giancarlo, my great friend and former schoolmate at the Gymnasium, to set up a section of young people of the Party in Lugano and to have the President to me. I have always had a hard time refusing positions offered to me ».
The complete version of this article can be found in the Ticino Welcome paper edition or on Issu on page 8
