I think I can take this book even farther by creating audio guides and an app that will be equipped with related images. For example, if I am visiting Notre Dame and I discuss the relics, the app would have images determined by your location.
So today I started a draft. I thought I'd post some of it on here to hopefully get some feedback and thoughts. I've always heard that you should write for yourself. If that is my goal, then this is how I would write. I want to use it as a way to bring interest to others, but also preserve my memories and learn more about the places I love. I have an idea someday that I might like to be a Paris tour guide. This would only help me gain some of the background that I need.
I wouldn't end this series with Paris though. I would also really like to write one about Venice. I think this format could work for all cities because each one has distinct neighborhoods with different character. What do you think?
Here is a sample of my introduction. It is in rough form, but gives you an idea. I'll also include a segment from my Montmartre chapter. I'd love some critiquing!
Introduction
Cities
are comprised of a number of neighborhoods that give the overall identity for
the city. Each personality of a
neighborhood is like a new piece of glass coming together to make the whole
image. Closer investigation into these
neighborhoods reveals a distinct character and vibe of its own. To truly appreciate a place, one must delve
into the corners and back alleys that are the veins for the beating city.
Paris
is broken into 20 arrondissements or districts.
You will find that each district will affect you in a variety of ways. There are a number of contributing factors
that lead to this village within a city feeling. Looking into the history of the neighborhood is
a strong indicator for the reasoning behind these differences. The age, art, inhabitants, and politics all
create the makeup of the area.
Neighborhood Mosaic is a
combination of a guidebook and personal anecdotes. The neighborhoods I have selected are only a
few of the many that can be found in Paris.
These sites have come alive in my visits. As you read through the anecdotes and
historical references, I hope that you find yourself unable to resist the urge
to buy a plane ticket so that you can stand in the footsteps of the city that
has made an impact on many lives and is waiting to impact yours.
Chapter
4: Montmartre
Montmartre was my home during
my first visit to Paris. I had graduated
from college and my aunts were generous enough to pay my way for a week in
Paris. We stayed in an apartment on
Yvonne le Tac; a short walk to the nearest metro. Apartments have such a great appeal to us. For that week, we are living with the
Parisians. We smell the garlic roasting
for dinner downstairs. Small exchanges
occur as you try to squeeze past a neighbor on the stairs, trying to wind down without
winding down on the ground. You may even
have the opportunity to climb over a homeless man lying across your front door. My favorite benefit of staying in an
apartment is to shop like the Parisians.
Each day we search for the freshest baguette, cheese, wine, and every
other cliché purchase. We begin to
become familiar with the man down at the little grocery. We even set out our garbage like the rest.
If
staying near the Abessess metro, be sure to pray on each journey for a working
elevator. This metro station is one of
the deepest in Paris with over 200 steps to climb. Great for exercise, but be prepared for a
workout if you’ve got luggage.
