A Word Artist's Journal On Art, History, Culture and Poetry

Last day of the week in the city of love made an entrance. It is a day that, to a large extent, goes in the form and sign of the hard material. The sun casts a warm glow over the cobblestone streets. The bustling energy of the city takes on a new rhythm.

Everything from sculptures and architectural monuments to a slightly lighter adventure awaited us as we stepped into the museum. The haunting stillness of Auguste Rodin’s monuments surrounded us. Their pale, imposing figures seemed to come to life in the dim light.

As we made our way through the museum, we felt a profound connection to the artist. His timeless masterpieces captivated us. For a moment, it felt as if we were stepping into a slightly lighter adventure. This journey beautifully intertwined history, art, and the boundless potential of human creativity.

Cogito, ergo sum. The thinker in his own form stands in the middle of the garden where many of Rodin’s creations stand. As the thinker contemplates existence, the sculptures around him seem to come to life. Each sculpture tells its own story through the frozen movement captured by Rodin’s skilled hands.

In the house where the museum is housed, I was surprised by the works of other artists exhibited there. Some van Gogh and works from Munch, of course. As I wandered through the halls, I also came across breathtaking pieces by Monet, Renoir, and Picasso.

I was pleasantly surprised and overwhelmed with joy when I stepped into the museum. I laid my eyes on the exquisite paintings by the renowned artists Van Gogh and Munch. There were also works by other artists.

A lunch among all the stiff figures would give us more energy. It would be as if we ourselves stepped out of our marble costume we put on during the week. Taking the time to enjoy a leisurely meal with colleagues can offer a needed break from the daily grind. It allows for lively conversations. It provides the opportunity to recharge our mental batteries.

A short visit to the Place de la Concorde with neither blood spatter nor trace of royalty. We continued to the Arc de Triumph in the center of the Champs-Élysées. The Place de la Concorde stands as a symbol of French history. Its impressive Egyptian obelisk and ornate fountains epitomize grandeur.

As we strolled through the square, echoes of the past reverberated through the air. They reminded us of the historical events that have taken place on this hallowed ground.

We walked around it and under it. We marveled at the intricate details of the architecture. The sunlight played beautifully with the shadows.

A little later, we ended up at La Défense, the modern business district with its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. It was a gigantic contrast to everything we experienced during the week.

From history, to more modern history and now, perhaps the most modern part of the city. Modern architecture and tall buildings, far from brick, marble, and concrete. The skyline of this bustling city is now dominated by sleek glass skyscrapers. Each skyscraper is a testament to human ingenuity. These buildings represent technological advancement.

The historical wing beats seemed to have flown away. They left behind a serene atmosphere. This atmosphere whispered tales of the past. The ancient walls echoed with the memories of generations long gone. The place’s energy felt vibrant and alive.

The people we met there were anything but historical. Young people, who have a future ahead of them, filled the air with excitement. Their ambition painted a vivid contrast against the backdrop of antiquity.

All the places, all the historical visits, and the hunt for French cuisine were now over. Tomorrow the flight goes home, and everything points to the fact that I will come back to Paris. I am convinced of that — but when, that is a mystery?

The next time we meet here on the blog, I will have moved to a small Portuguese island. It is far out in the Atlantic. The island is known for its stunning cliffs, picturesque beaches, and rich maritime history.

From traditional seafood dishes to colorful festivals, there is so much to discover and experience on this beautiful island. I can’t wait to share my adventures with you in the upcoming blog posts.

The next trip and adventure will be in February 2024, spending a week in Madeira. There will be a report about this on the blog later. The theme will be focused on plants and nature, including mountain safaris and hikes in forests and mountains. We explored the beautiful landscapes of Madeira and visited botanical gardens.

…to be continued

© Björn Blomqvist 2024-08-29