Paris, Paris: the city I love
Paris envy. I coined the term while working for a Paris food writer in Nice: Rosa Jackson zipped up to the French capital at least once a month to stay current on food and restaurant trends. Whenever she mentioned an upcoming trip or described her latest foodie find, I would moan about missing out.
My Paris envy has been renewed with vigor after reading Paris, Paris by David Downie. As I read the book, I yearned for un café and a sunny terrace table—because, as he keenly points out, Parisians only drink espressos because it’s the cheapest way to enjoy the café atmosphere, rude waiters, cigarette smoke and all.
It’s part history book, part social commentary, part travel guide. Downie is a keen observer of Parisian characters and culture, bringing a refreshing perspective and spot-on wit to a place that often feels more like a museum than a city.
He explores a few of my favorite places in Paris, like Père Lachaise and Jardins de Luxumbourg, and exposes the hidden truth behind familiar names, like Coco Chanel and Vincent Van Gogh. The essays are exquisitely researched, with subjects that I’ve never considered but was instantly fascinated by, like the bouquinistes—you know, those people who sell touristy junk out of boxes along the Seine, but are apparently only meant to sell secondhand books. My favorite explains the history behind the term Ville Lumiere, explaining how the city today spends millions employing lighting engineers to create a warm and nostalgic atmosphere after dark. Now I can’t help but be very unimpressed by Melbourne’s post-sunset lighting scheme.
The only thing I hated about this book was not being in Paris. I loved that I could conjure up images of much of what he describes, thanks to my own wanders and promenades through the city. But it seems as if Downie has explored every nook and cranny in the winding streets of Paris, a city that overwhelms me every time I visit. He asks–and answers–the questions that would never even cross my mind, yet instantly interest me.
Paris is an endless feast, one that always sucks me in and leaves me breathless: I left my heart in Paris long ago. Paris, Paris just reminded me of all its nuances, all the reasons why I sometimes wish I never left.
If you love Paris, you will love this book. If you love the idea of Paris, that oasis of romantics and artists and gourmandes, you will love this book. Random House has generously offered to give away three copies to my U.S.-based readers. To be entered to win a copy, simply tell me about your favorite place in Paris. Only been in your dreams? Share where you would most like to visit. Winners will be announced on May 19.
