Another Event Scheduled

Indeed, the Anselm Kiefer opera was as intriguing as I expected. The stage set was an echo of his latest style. The music was not strange to my ears as some in the audience, at the end, indicated by their booing. The music by Jörg Widmann, a young fellow, reminded me of Lou Harrison’s , which is best described as atonal, but appealing. Or, maybe a few people thought the conception of the opera (also by Kiefer), was too non-traditional. I will admit that the sequences were infrequently broken by some action, and that you were left to admire the stage set for far too long. I’m curious about any reviews which may have appeared in the French press.

Sorry, to bore those who may not be interested. One reason for going was to see the inside of the Opéra Bastille, which we had passed many times, but never entered. It was quite magnificent, modern (in a forward looking sense), and now celebrating its 20th anniversary.
I walked back to my apartment as it was only 9:30 pm, but still light out. The contrast between the different neighborhoods becomes apparent as you cross boundaries; for example, from the right bank of Seine (location of Bastille) to the left bank (the Latin Quarter) where I am staying. Not only does the architecture change, but the type of businesses change. It was dark by the time I reached my area and, I must admit, I passed my navigational landmark (the metro station). I walked several blocks further than I needed too; I knew this when a broad boulevard sprung up that shouldn’t have been there. Ha! What did I do? I saw light to read a map by in a nearby brasserie. I ordered a coffee and reconnoitered. It was as I mentioned, my landmark looked different at night. Amazing, simply amazing. I also discovered a Starbucks Coffee. Do I dare say that, in the land of splendid espresso and café crème, I dare not step into a Starbucks.

Today was less strenuous,. I went to see the Andy Warhol exhibition at the Grand Palais. It centered around his portrait paintings and silk screens (the Marilyns, the Maos, etc.), self-portraits and portraits commissioned by others, spanning his entire career. Like all ambitious shows of this type, visual fatigue becomes apparent before you reach the end. It was good to see the works up close to examine Warhol’s technique and use of color. You are also reminded that Warhol’s art existed during a specific period in art history, in the second half of the 20th century. Where were you in 1972? 1985?
Interior Stairways of the Grand Palais

As I’m not pressed for time, I sat, first in the park near the Grand Palais, then at a bus stop on the Champs Elysees. The tri-colored buntings on every light pole signal that a parade is in the offering for Bastille Day, July 14th. Many events are scheduled and I hope to get to some of them, especially the fireworks around the Eiffel Tower.

For today, though, I enjoyed my bus ride back to my apartment, stopping for lunch along the way. Tomorrow, I will walk over to Rue Mouffetard to stock up fruits and vegetables, maybe some cheese. Question for everyone -- what is the best way to eat an entire baguette (or half) by yourself?

Twenty-Four Hours to Departure

The countdown is on. I have just 24 hours until my departure for Paris and, as usual, the packing still needs to be done. It's all in piles around the apartment, not in the suitcase.

I say to myself, "soon you will joining the crowds at the Eiffel Tower, to see an exhibit celebrating its 120 years of existance. There is also much ado at the Hotel de Ville." And, I hope to see the fireworks and concert on the Champ de Mars on Bastille Day, July 14th. It will be my first time joining the festivities.

Before then, though, I will probably have been to the Louvre. I intend to spend several days revisiting my favorite paintings and sculptures.

Ah! Paris is so lovely near sunset. Back to you in a few days, if not sooner.