“At the age of 25, my grandmother Emilia Morrone came to America from Italy, along with my Grandfather and one-year old uncle. It was 1915. I never knew her, but I heard a lot of stories about her throughout my life. I always got the impression that she did not want to be here. The initial inspiration for the lyrics came when I stumbled upon a book of photographs of Italian immigrants at Ellis Island. I thought about the fear and sadness my grandparents must have felt leaving their families to come here and I was filled with respect. I am here because of their decision.” - Kristen


Nonna Emilia and family, circa late 1920's
The boy in the middle is my uncle Peter; he scanned this photo for me from the real thing, which hangs in his house.

A big ship brought you here
And I guess that means me too
Wonder where your mind traveled before that day
Oh Amelia, were you even scared? Did you even care?
Did you ever think you’d make it here?

A baby on your hip and a husband at your side
Who could blame him for
wanting a better life?
But you did, Amelia
You wanted to stay but you sailed away
Was walking aboard like walking the plank?

We never met, now did we?
I guess it’s just as well
With your stern face staring from the picture on the wall

Our blood connection
We float through time
I’ve heard all those stories about you
Have you heard all of mine?
Oh Amelia, did you ever think it’d turn out fine
Oh Amelia, I’m doing fine.

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