When I think of Paris
mostly in my dreams
but thrice in reality,
I see my heart fly.
Just the drizzle of chocolate
on warm and cold profiteroles
or inside a croissant;
when I think of Paris
I glow like a sunrise.
All those tiny pixels
in Seurat’s Sunday park
Rodin’s dainty ballerinas
hanging greens at Monet’s bridge
make my eyes pop wide
and I melt
with happiness.
Oh, the music!
When I think of Paris
a lone guitar, violins
strings jumping, fingers thumping
makes a subway ride
more like a dance hall.
My soul is bouncing.
The markets!
I like to say “marches”
when I think of Paris
juicy fruits and crunchy breads
jeweled tarts and creamy pâté
make my tongue quiver.
And the Eiffel …
oh, it stops my breath
all the city beneath my feet
what bright jewels to behold.
When I think of Paris
it refreshes my mind.
There, in Paris,
a friend, of twenty years now, 9-11;
I think of your calm and comfort
when those towers crumbled,
and the world trembled,
in my mind
never forgotten.
– Sandra Johnson, 6/26/21
I was going to suggest eating cheese in Paris, but then I continued reading and the heartbreaking ending.
Pulled on the heart strings.
Thanks Daryl. Can you tell I love Paris? Since 9-11 I have had a deep connection.
Only people who have been to Paris can truly know what it is to fall in love with Paris. This is a gorgeous love letter to that beautiful city. The imagery transported me to all of the places, flavors, and fragrances you describe in this piece. Thank you for taking me back to Paris!
Thanks Ramona. I can’t wait someday to go back a fourth time. My friend, still concierge at the hotel I first visited, is still good friends with me on Facebook. I’m still hoping to compile a memoir from 9-11 in Paris. I was there four days and 9-11 stretched it to almost 2 weeks. Glad to share it.
I see you love Paris not as a city but as someone you know intimately. I have never been there but the city came to life as a person to me. Thank you for this.
You’re welcome! I love sharing my love for this city!
Yes. Memories of places are just this intimate, just this exhilarating, just this poignant. Especially, love the rich sensory details that puts me on the scene in a place I’ve never been.
Thanks.