To celebrate spring time, let’s read a poem by French author Théophile Gautier (1811-1872). As always, a ‘perfect’ translation of a poem from one language to another is simply impossible. So all the more reason to improve your French! … Continue reading
Jean Reinhardt, better known as Django Reinhardt, was a guitarist whose style of playing and composition gave birth to a style of jazz called gypsy jazz. Continue reading
Le Jardin Potager (kitchen garden) is a food garden where vegetables are cultivated for a family or a relatively small group of people. Such a garden is both practical and a source of enjoyment. In the past, most noblemen with a … Continue reading
#8216;Tristan et Iseult’ by Gaston Bussière, French Symbolist painter In France, kissing is everywhere, everyday! The ubiquitous kiss in France is la bise (kiss on the cheek), or le bisou (kiss on the cheek typically, but can be used for kissing … Continue reading
Classics of French literature, the Fables de La Fontaine continue to work their magic on the imagination of both adults and children, for the power of their imagery, the relevance of their content, and the excellence of the language. Continue reading
If 'comfort food' means a dish associated with a sense of home or contentment, then it could be argued that most foods in France fit that label. Indeed, following the stereotype, French people regard food as altogether convivial, pleasurable and nourishing. In winter however, an emphasis is on warm, filling foods. Continue reading
La Fashion Week de Paris (also called Semaine de la mode à Paris) is a series of famous weeks of défilés de mode (fashion show; lit. fashion parades). Held semi-annually in Paris since 1973 for both haute couture and prêt-à-porter, … Continue reading
Amour (Love) is a 2012 French-language drama which has been making a sensation around the world, both among the critics and the public. Directed by Austrian filmmaker Michael Haneke, the story set in Paris follows a couple who are retired music teachers in their eighties. While Illness, suffering, and death are themes in the film that can be difficult to watch, it is superbly balanced with a sense of magic and the beauty of life. Continue reading
With the theater release of the quasi-operatic Les Misérables last Christmas, the classic story of redemption by VIctor Hugo receives yet another incarnation, this time based on the successful stage musical. Continue reading
Weddings in France are celebrated in much the same way as the western world. First of all, French law requires that there be a mariage civil (civil marriage) before any religious ceremony. Though there exists now as many religious weddings as there are religions in France, traditionally the weddings are Catholic. Continue reading