Paris

I did something totally and completely insane today: I quit my job.

I’ve decided to work temporarily at a library in Paris. I fluctuate between being ecstatically happy and excited at the prospect of living in Paris—Paris!—and feeling insane for leaving a steady job and everyone I know.

Clearly, I need to focus on the exciting and ignore the doubts and pessimism. So, to help myself think positively, I am going to remind myself of all the wonderful books I’ve read that take place in Paris.

• Madeline: When I hear “Paris,” I immediately think of Madeline. Do you think it’s possible for me to attend a boarding school? I want a nun like Miss Clavel to teach me, and I will walk in two straight rows. I’m afraid, though, that I would be one of those good, boring students. I am too anal about school to act like Madeline.
• Hunchback of Notre Dame: Technically, I shouldn’t count this book because I didn’t finish it. However, this Victor Hugo's classic does remind me of my last trip to Paris. I walked up the 400-ish steps of Notre Dame. I thought I was going to die—and I think my sister was convinced of this as well. Remembering this book, and my last trip, should inspire me to eat right and exercise before moving to Paris. Too bad I’m leaving in only a week.
• Suite Francaise: I also can’t technically count this book because I didn’t finish it (though I had the best intentions to). The story takes place during World War II when Paris was neither a safe nor a happy place. Maybe it’s a good thing I didn’t finish.
• The Da Vinci Code: I have not been kind to this book. However, The Da Vinci Code is a great advertisement for Paris. I mean, it makes the Louvre look like a very exciting and mysterious place—rather than a crowded tourist attraction. I’m sure I’ll have as many adventures in Paris as Robert Langdon and Sophie Neveu.
• A Tale of Two Cities: This is my favorite Dickens’s novel. It does not take place during the happiest of times, with all the guillotine action and such, but I am in love with Sydney Carton. The first time I went to Paris was with my father, the second with a girl from church, and the third with my youngest sister. Surely, this is my time to actually have romance in the “City of Love.” Right?

On that note, I am very excited for Paris. And I’m sure to read loads and loads of excellent books while I’m there.