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I am particularly disturbed by the number of people who have mistaken a fictional hollywood mafia movie for reality, and who seem to see it as a guide for life.

It is neither.

That wasn’t fictional, Mario Puzo observed the culture. BTW, it was common in the US even for families to accompany suitors on dates, read some history books on cultural norms.

From AI data crunching slop:

Mario Puzo’s portrayal of Sicilian culture, particularly in The Sicilian and The Godfather series, focuses on deep-rooted traditions of loyalty, vendetta, and the code of omertà (silence). He highlights a society shaped by foreign oppression, where, in the absence of trust in the law, people rely on "Friends of the Friends" (Mafia) for justice and protection.

Key Aspects of Sicilian Culture in Puzo's Works:

Omertà & Honor: A strict code of silence and personal honor is central, where betraying one's family or community is considered the ultimate sin.

The "Honorary" Mafia: Puzo frames the Mafia not just as criminals, but as a parallel, traditional power structure that offers justice, food, and protection to villagers, acting as a "Robin Hood" figure against corrupt, distant governments.

Vendettas & Loyalty: Life is defined by intense, long-lasting blood feuds (vendettas) and unbreakable loyalty to the family unit above all else.

Landscape & Tradition: He vividly describes the rugged Sicilian landscape—mist-shrouded mountains, ancient ruins, and small villages—where old-world customs of courtship, religion, and hospitality remain strong.

Resistance to Authority: A cultural belief exists that the only true justice comes from within the community, often forcing heroes like Salvatore Guiliano into conflict with both the state and the Mafia.

While Puzo was born in New York, his writing heavily draws on his heritage and research to create a romanticized yet brutal, authentic-feeling depiction of Sicilian life, exploring themes of power and survival.