When in Rome …. ( Parisian Cuisine)

Although I have always proclaimed my interest in Fashion, during my visit to Paris was not enthralled because I noticed that it’s all in the same. I did not find any big gaps in regards to Paris fashion trends and those in New York. Therefore, I switched gear to their food.  There’s no denial that French food was and still is a big deal. Although there was a period, where this was demystified by forces such as Julia Childs, I was extremely interesting in trying to grasp first hand, why French food was considered High taste to begin with.   I also was extremely interested in noting the influence immigration had in changes in their cuisine.

 

My first day in Paris, I noticed how much a big deal food in general was. This included chocolatiers, pastry shops and cafes.  Cafes in Paris are like Bodegas in NYC, there are at least 3 on every block.  It was not until dinner that I actually observed how the concept of the restaurant was engraved in their culture. I mean it does make sense after all the French are the inventors the table, the cooking vocabulary, restaurants and the concept of cuisine. I recall a conversation with my grandmother as she was asking about the food and I said to her “The French do not cook”. I had no idea if this was attributed to the fact that our hotel was located in a tourist area but it seemed that as the clock stroked 7pm, those cafes were filled to capacity. It was just unbelievable, I remembered my friend Jocelyn turning to me saying isn’t it the same in NYC and I said I don’t think so. However I’m definitely not complaining because those meals were delightful. Especially the meal I shared at Café Constant, which I admit was the highlight of my trip. It was a perfect example of great French food.  I also noticed that dining out served the sociological purpose of bringing me and my mates together.  We had conversations about our values and life experiences that we probably would not have had in a class room.  In a sense eating out daily made me feel French , I wanted to absorb their culture. As the saying goes “When in Rome…..” (You know the rest).  Crepes and croissants  easily became a part of my daily eating routine.  A bite of a crepe allowed me to share their cultural experience.  I had at least two daily.  I said to someone, this is legit like the Hot dog of NYC. You cannot go to New York City especially in the summer time without having one.

The act of dining out also allowed me to see the impacts of gastro nationalism and globalization. As a result of these processes, we were able to have Italian, Moroccan and Lebanese food while in France.  There were also the options of Starbucks and McDonalds.  The presences of these cultures prove that food in France goes beyond escargot or steak and fries. It shows the acceptance of diversity in cuisine exists.

Arab and Islamic

The lines between the two identities of Muslim and Arab are usually blurred for many. Individuals tend to use the labels synonymously without truly understanding the grave difference. While being Arab indicates being from the same region and sharing culture, Muslim however is a religious affiliation.  During my visit to Paris, I had the opportunity of  share both religious and culture spaces.

                  Our first stop was the Mosque, which is the Islamic place of worship. As we approached the building, I just felt a sense of familiarity as if I had seen it before. It was then I remembered a scene in Je t’aime Paris.  Islam is the second largest religion in France. It was reported that since 1950, France opened its borders and had a large influx of Muslim immigrants. The religion has gained media attention in the nation especially in regards to women and the burqua and the introduction of hallal burgers.  Although, this was not my first time in a Mosque, it was definitely a defying moment.  The Garden was absolutely breathtaking. The tiles and color coordination worked. It was quite pleasing aesthetically.  

 

 

                Our second stop on the tour was the Modern Arab museum. The building was so futuristic, it was one of the most interesting concepts I have ever seen from an architectural perspective. The glass like material used in the construction beamed as we approached. Although, the museum itself was one of the shortest when compared to Parisian museums such as Louvre, it contained interesting paintings, jewelry, pottery and instruments etc that share Arab influences.

 

 The highlight of our tour was the meal at the Lebanese restaurant. I loved the décor and aura of the restaurant, which was located in the museum. I was not accustomed to the meal; it was different and took me a while to get acquainted with. I had an array of hummus, falafel, lamb etc.  My favorite part of the course was the water, which contained mint leaves. This was not only refreshing but gave me sense of nostalgia. It reminded me of days with my grandmother and cousins, where we would drink mint tea before bed.

 

Le Marais

Le Marais, which was developed during the 12^th century, is regarded as one of Paris’s most oldest and aristocratic quarters. Its French name translates into Marsh meaning swamp. The quarters was said to be a noble favorite from the reigns of Henri IV to that of Louis XIII. It was not until the French revolution that the area fell under ruins.  The disheartening history of the area lies with the plight of the Jews under the Vichy Government.

  In the 19^th century, France became a refuge for Jews specifically those + Europe, who became victims of anti-Semitic beliefs and policies.  Le Marais thus became a Jewish community. It was and still remains home of many synagogues and successful Jewish owned businesses such as Jo Goldenberg and Hammam. The tour guide noted that until the 20^th century, there were many signs stating “Place au Juif”. This served as a religious and cultural proclamation of Jewish presence.  This changed under the rule of the Vichy government, which stripped the Jews of their citizenship.  Many Jews were forced into camps such as Drancy and Auschwitz and were forced to wear the Star of David. This served as an “identifying” agent.  According to the statistics approximately 11,000 children died in the camps. Reports also showed that only 2500 of 13000 returned from the camps. During the tour, I saw tributes on buildings honoring those who lost their lives and those who helped protect the Jews especially priests and nuns. France is reported to have the second largest Jewish community in comparison to USA and Israel.  There is not a specific number in regards to demographics since ethnic studies are not allowed in France. This prevents discrimination and prejudice and allows the Jews to truly feel french.

 

Today, Le Marais is gentrified. It is popularly known as a gay and Jewish community.  While walking on the Rue des Rosier, the area reminded me of SoHo.  The cobblestoned narrow streets were filled with stores, bakeries, restaurants, bars and bookshops.  I saw strength in the attempts of the Jews to rebuild in an area that contains memories of a difficult period in their history.

Beauty in Mere Buildings -Catholic Heritage

The presence of Catholic Heritage in Paris is unquestionable. This comes as no surprise since it was the religion of the monarchy, which made it the religion of the state. Though the actual practice of the religion is not as strong, through observation I have noted that religious sites such as the Sacre Coeur, Notre Dame and Saint Chapelle are more touristic as opposed to upholding their initial objective of being places of worship. This is aided with the introduction of concepts such as secularism and globalization. However, symbolically, Catholicism remains a force.  While walking through the city of lights, I was constantly reminded of this through the presence of spiritual relics that came in the form of churches and cathedrals. Some of the street names also reinforced the dominant religion with names such as Saint Honore (like the pastry in Angelina), Saint Severin and Saint Denis.   In this blog, I will provide highlights of tours of Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle and Sacre Coeur.

     According to the information provided, the first stone was laid in 1163 . The building’s design and structure mimics the artistic movement of the 12^th and 13^th century, gothic style. The cathedral is the official seat of the Archbishop of Paris.  The site is noted for containing the world’s largest organs and for its baptized church bells. Like Saint Chappelle, the site is unique for its stained glass windows. It is particularly famous for containing the crown of thorns, which was once located Saint Chapelle.  Aesthetically, this was my favorite Cathedral.  I loved the detailing of sculptures especially that of the chosen and condemned, which is located at the entrance of the building.

 

 The Sacre Coeur was my favorite in regards to location.   The basilica, which is located on the hill of Montmartre, gives a spiritual experience. Unlike, my peers I took the train instead of the stairs but I felt as if I was ascending into heaven. This was also aided with the basilica being white, which was beautiful with the natural rays of sunshine upon it. It was noted that the hill, where Sacre Coeur is located has been sacred since pagan times. The name Sacre Coeur refers to the heart of Jesus (the sacred Heart). The dome of the basilica comes second to Eiffle tower in regards to being one of the highest points. This was particularly beautiful, because it provided a panoramic view of the city.

 

 

Lastly, Saint Chappelle though the least ornate and detailed of the three, stole the show with its stained glass window.  I have visited several cathedrals, which contained glass stained however I have never seen them so colorful and organized. The 15 stained-glass windows are approximately 50 ft in length; they entail vital scenes from the Bible, which dates from the infancy of Jesus to the Passion. There is said to be over 1,113 small panels. The church was built in 1248. It gained popularity because it contained a treasure chest for one of the world’s most valuable collections of sacred relics. The most important arguably was the Crown of Thorns, which was purchased under the reign of Louis IX.

 

 

 

Overall, there is no doubt that Paris contains and continues to serve as an enforcer of catholic beliefs and heritage. However, These buildings go beyond preserving religion and in a sense proves, why from an artistic (architectural) perspective Paris remains a force to be reckoned with. I am a proud New Yorker , who have seen some of the tallest sky scrapers but I must admit , I have never seen such beauty in “ mere “ buildings.

Paris at Last !!!!

This trip is so surreal at this point. I would describe it as yearning after something then finally having it but fearful of having it. I like many have had my preconceptions of Paris. I took it for face value without realizing that there is more to what meets the eyes. This class in general served as an eye opener in regards to what takes places behind curtains. Paris for me is no longer just the city of love, fashion and food. Now I think more about the social, economic and political disparities amongst the various ethnic groups and nationalities. At time I feel like this view taints my perception of the city .Overall, I cannot quite describe my feelings whether it is nervousness or excitement. I am most looking forward to the Eiffel Towel, because it is the trademark of the nation. It’s like the Lady liberty of New York. My friend Camille gave me suggestions such as Louvre, notre dame, troca-tour Eiffel, concorde, champs Elysse, Montmartre-sacré cœur and coffee at boulevard saint germains. she’s a soccer fan so she also suggested that I go to see a soccer match of the PSG at Parc des Prince. She’s so excited for me so now I want to see what the hype is all about (lol). Overall its like, Paris At Last

Paris,Je T’aime

The film, Paris,Je T’aime is an assortment of 20 short films, which under different creative minds shared one commonality, the theme love. It reaffirmed this idea of Paris being the city for lovers.  I cannot speak on behalf of my other classmates but the film was a jigsaw puzzle that I initially couldn’t piece together.  There are still some concepts such as the mimes falling in love and the businessman visiting the Asian salon that just did not click. However, I must admit that the movie did open my eyes to diversity in Paris.  There were actors of African, Middle Eastern, Hispanic and Caucasian descents.   It portrayed France as this colorful eye shadow palette.  In a sense although I read about it in class, it was different to see it especially the gay community.  Also, this movie appealed much more to me than Midnight in Paris, because there was a sense of normalcy. I personally loved seeing the couple Julie and Axel ‘s crazy relationship. It reminded me of New York City and seeing couples argue on the train but in the end somehow ended up going home together.   I was able to connect with the Paris crowd, the subways and the actors represented ordinary everyday people like me. Unlike Midnight in Paris, it was not about fancy dinners and trust fund kids; it was about love and reality. This Movie did not portray the perfect Paris rather the real Paris. We saw Break Ups, Mourning over a loss child, mental depression, death and in the midst love.

 There were a few scenes that I was drawn to. I loved one of the first scenes, where Zarkar and Francois met.  I loved her response to when he asked why she wore her scarf and she was so pretty without and she responded by stating that she was beautiful without or her hair covered.  This illustrates differences in taste.  It also took me by surprise that he took a liking to her especially consider the cultural differences.  Francois based on his group of friends did not seem like the type of individual to be interested in a “conservative” girl.  Staying on the issue of hair, the Asian woman saw blond hair as a ticket out.  It was her way of blending in and being more French, more European and more tasteful. In French society more association with whiteness equates to beauty.  In regards to the Story of the profiterole, it represented their last chance. In a sense this was their last chance of sharing a meal over her favorite dessert. It’s ironic because it was funny how the dessert he planned on breaking up over actually brought them back together.  Goffman would note his “faking” being in love as him making his reality.  The man through his action and habits has social reconstructed his reality. Therefore by acting in love ,he naturally became in love.

 

My favorite scene was the one with Caroline, I felt her sincerity ad in every sense I hope to fall in love with Paris the city.  In her scene she states:

Sitting there, alone in a foreign country, far from my job and everyone I know, a feeling came over me. It was like remembering something I’d never known before or had always been waiting for, but I didn’t know what. Maybe it was something I’d forgotten or something I’ve been missing all my life. All I can say is that I felt, at the same time, joy and sadness. But not too much sadness, because I felt alive. Yes, alive. That was the moment I fell in love with Paris. And I felt Paris fall in love with me.

 

  I have always an idea of what Paris will look and feel like. I hope my visit reaffirms these feelings.  I want to fall in love with Paris as Caroline did.

Paris : The Changing Fabric

As the time approaches, it stills unreal and very surreal that soon I’ll be on a flight Paris bound.  In some ways Paris still presents itself a mystery to me, I’ve fallen in love with this place from a tender age only knowing it at its face value.  Paris to me was always about great food, wine and of course fashion simply perfection. As I read the articles, I recalled a conversation with my co-worker Camille, who happens to be an international French student, while sharing my excitement on the upcoming trip; she said to me “Paris isn’t this great place that everyone thinks that it is”.  Although she elaborated to describe the increase in crime, from my own perspective it is the government’s inability to accept diversity and acknowledge the differences.  While reading the New York Times article France fights Racism by outing “Race”, I thought to myself a world without the concept of race would be ideal. As human beings we fight especially minorities to even out the playing field and to be seen as viable and worthy counterpart regardless of our religion or skin color. However, a world without race means a denial of differences and suffering.  I agree with some of the arguments against France’s idea removal of race from its constitutions and legal documents. I believe that it serves as a means to sweep all inequalities under the rug. In a sense it is imposing French supremacy on others. Individuals are forced to being French; it pushes this whole “French” first and only objective. You’re not black; you’re not white but You’re French.  Another view is does the eradication of the word eliminate the plight and discrimination the Lebanese and Algerians face?

 Another article that touches on France’s changing fabric is Thomas Chatterton Williams’, How Hipsters ruined Paris. This writing touches on the rise of urbanism specifically the Pigalle region, which goes against French class and taste. As the writes describes the feel of the area, an extreme version of NYC, the village came to mind. Although the concept of sexy has always been visible in France’s culture, it was subtle and classy.  Therefore this outlandish red light district entailing brothels and hostess bars startles me because this is not France that I have imagined.  The image of the masseuse sun bathe just appears tasteless especially in an area that was once described “la Nouvelle-Pigalle”.  However this shows that taste is a social construct that is every changing.  I agree with the author’s resolution of not representing urban life style as this uniform expression of the middle and upper middle class rather as an “assortment of lifestyles and social realities.  I also believe that the government should adapt this solution rather than eliminating the word race, acknowledge and address the issues that it entails.  This can establish the platform for equality.

Haute Cuisine….not so much

 

There’s no doubt that the French have created all things good.. All things great… well at least they seem to think so. They were definitely the first to set the standards in regards to what great food is after all they  conceptualize  gourmet, maître d’hôtel ,restaurateur and of course the restaurant. However, there’s no doubt in my mind that first does not always mean best.

  Our rendezvous at Alfa marked my one of my many encounters with French cuisine.  I was fortunate to have Senegalese friends, who introduced me to a few French restaurants uptown, Les Ambassades located on 117^th and Lexington in Harlem being my absolute favorite. Unlike Alfa, although there was evidence of French influence, I would say the food was dominated by their African heritage.  I can still recollect the relaxing aura while Langston Hughes played in the background.  I also had the opportunity of dining at the restaurant L’Adour previously managed by the owners of Alfa, which personally was better. It was more French. I thought of it as the move from snobby to more comfortable. Although Alfa had French meals, I felt like they weren’t French enough. It reminded me of a contemporary American restaurant. It’s understood that globalization has led to the exchange of ideas however I wish their culture dominated. Dishes such as the vegetarian Panini (Italian) and the chocolate twist on the classic vanilla crème Brule. Overall,  I enjoyed the feel of Alfa; it was very simple yet formal but not stiff. Our opening appetizer was a cheese platter. Honestly speaking though I love cheese, I have never grasped the concept of eating cheese at an event. Prior to taking this class, I just thought people were weird (lol), cheese was seen as an ingredient not a meal.  This was my excuse of not saying it’s not me, it’s them. I never saw it as a lack of cultural capitalism.  I feel like individuals see themselves as opened without admitting how much culture limits them. This was evident in why the most of us ordered the grilled chicken salad with Dijon mustard. Which I must admit was a big mistake; it was just plain and burnt. I just thought to myself you should’ve followed the rule “when in Rome do what the Romans do “.  I wish I had ordered something more French. In a sense it reaffirmed the shift cuisine preferences and also why cultures have their specializations.

Co Co Chanel – The Self Made Woman

Everybody enjoys the concept of being self-made. The thought of knowing that by hard work and dedication you can go from nothing to something.  After all, we control our own destiny..right?. Anne Fontaine’s biopic of Gabrielle Chanel’s in transition from pauper to trend setter definitely left this impression.  The movie starts off with the two Chanel sisters, Gabrielle and Adrienne being abandoned by their father at an orphanage.  I am sure like many in the audience; I questioned the whereabouts of their mother. As the movie progressed it was later stated that their mother died from a broken heart as a result of their father’s affairs.  After learning this, I noted “a woman is nothing without a man”.  I can’t speak on the behalf of my other classmates but this movie continued to reinforce gender inequality. It did shed light on Gabrielle’s style, individualism, strong personality and dedication to change the status quo in regards to the extravagant and uncomfortable fashion trends but even with these traits, who would she be without Balsan and Boy Chapel.?… Her mother was nothing without her father…. Her sister Adrienne was nothing without her Baron and she was nothing without Balsan & Chapel

            Although I have my own perspective, I must admit that these men are the ones’ responsible for building her cultural and social capital, which as a result of her social and economic class was lacking. This inevitably changed her style from one of democracy to distinction. She went from wearing poor materials in those musical halls to pearls, black low cuts and lace at Banquets with Chapel.  It was Balsan’s parties that allowed her to interact with those of higher socio-economic status such as Emilienne.  These settings paved the way for her clientele base and enabled her to transform the industry from Paul Poiret’s “over-the –top” to simplicity and elegance. I found this quite ironic, because initially Gabrielle was depicted as hating the upper class attitudes towards work. She strived throughout the movie to be the complete anti-thesis of what they represented.  However, these were the very same people that she designed for. In some sense, I understand that they were now as she told Adrienne earlier at the race track “begging to be in her presence”  but in another sense those were her  still her patrons. There was still this feel of those higher up dictating what fashion is. I enjoyed the movie, everyone loves when the underdog wins but I wished her character was developed more independently.

My Fashion Evolution

In my younger years, the concept of being fashionable was non-existent. I grew up amongst boys, where wrestling and rough housing was the norm. I did not care about matching or what I had on as long as I was clean but even that was proven to be a difficult task. My hair was always a problem. The Sunday ritual of washing and getting my hair braided was hell for my cousins. It consisted of complaints of them pulling too hard, which gave me “headaches” or several bathroom breaks, which annoyed them and sometimes made them leave my hair half-done. I hated shopping, it literally made me sick. The thought of searching for the “perfect” outfit did not appeal to me. I simply did not care, could not care and would not. My best friends in elementary, who donned neatly pressed uniforms and perfectly straightened hair, would constantly address my nonchalant attitude in regards to my attire. But I still did not care.
It seemed like every girl my age was consumed with bi-weekly “doobies” and trips to the nail salon. I felt lost in conversations when release dates of the latest Jordans or Nike dunks came up. While my peers were wearing jeans that hugged their bodies, mines hung loosely. I remember having this fear of shorts. Why? I have no idea because now that’s all I wear; however there was just no connection between me and the fashion world. However, my first day of high school changed my perception; because that was the first day I meet Shanice Brown. As far as my memory would take me, she was my first friend in High School. She was very tall and slim. Shanice had the stature of a model, rich dark brown skin, long straight hair, some of the whitest teeth I had ever seen and she was always nicely dressed. The closer our friendship grew, I started to accompany her to her nail appointments and before I knew it I was making my own appointments. I then began to become fascinated with perms and trips to the mall. At that time like all the other girls, Forever 21 was my main place. I dibbled in some urban wear such a Rock-A –Wear and True Religion but soon wanted to be more girly. I am very aware of my pieces now and how they complement each other. I am very in love with the “All Black Everything” feel. It makes me feel empowered and gives off a timeless vibe.
Although I am in love with the Parisian Culture and Fashion it can be a bit too uptight for me. I do enjoy some classic and “high” fashion like look but find subtly and comfort essential. I believe that clothes are very powerful and can make you appear unrelatable even unapproachable at times. In a sense I reject and embrace Parisian trends and fashion. Because it has this aura of superiority.. a better than them feel. I recall being a fan of their color blocking trend and looking for those perfect royal blue pumps to accompany sun kissed colored dress. Another season if I recall correctly, it was spring going I found myself engulfed with the search for pastel pieces. I must admit though there are moments that I seek comfort. However, there are certain occasions in which I enjoy that “Wow” effect and vie for attention. Whenever I think of this change in style, Goffman’s Dramaturgical analysis comes to mind. I become an actor and each occasion/setting becomes a different stage. Therefore to complement my various stages/arenas, the props change (My attire & mannerisms). As my mother always says “there’s a time and place for everything”. There is what you would wear to the gym, which you would not wear to a banquet (vice versa). I believe that it is vital for one to adapt to their surrounding without losing their individuality. Facades are not always a bad thing.