The article is an opinion piece addressing recent criticisms levied by the New York Times about the suffering of homeless individuals in Milan during cold weather. The author, Riccardo Brambilla, expresses disbelief at the foreign newspaper's comments, highlighting the stark realities faced by the homeless in major cities like New York, where many people also live on the streets. He questions the integrity of such critiques coming from a place with its own severe issues regarding homelessness.

Brambilla shares his personal experiences from his time as a correspondent in New York in the 1980s, reflecting on the chaotic and often dire conditions in the city back then. He points out that the struggles of those without homes are not unique to Milan, as major cities around the world grapple with similar social challenges. The article underscores a sense of defensiveness regarding Italy's reputation in comparison to other nations and calls out what the author perceives as hypocrisy from critics who may not fully understand the local context.

By pressing back against the New York Times' assertions, Brambilla aims to shift the narrative around homelessness in Milan and provoke a deeper conversation about societal responsibilities toward vulnerable populations. It illustrates a broader theme of national pride and the complexity of addressing social issues without falling into the trap of ideological criticism.