Friendly French

I haven't taken a French course in over 3 years. And in spite of having taken 6 years of French in my academic career, I suck at speaking it. Although, I often have little conversations in my head, which go quite smoothly, but once actually faced with a real person, I clam up. I just trip over "oui...uhhh...je...suis?...oui...merci." Or something along those lines, which is just depressing. I can't help but think that I am being slyly laughed at by Parisians all around.

But, today, I spoke French! In fact, I had a rather lengthy conversation in French. I was sitting by, what I am calling, the Mini Arc De Triomphe in front of the Louvre and writing in my poetry journal. As I was deep in thought, vigorously scratching out half-formed ideas, an older man stopped by and said: "Vous etes jolie quand vous ecrivez." (Or something like that, as I said, my French sucks... point is: I understood him). I laughed and said "Merci."

He sat next to me and commenced speaking in French. I was astonished that I could understand him extremely well. When he asked questions, I responded in French. Sure, I stumbled, but he didn't seem to mind and encouraged the conversation.

When he found out that I was from the United States, he seemed surprised, although, it must have been a feigned emotion. He told me that I didn't seem American, which, I suppose I must take as a compliment. I was just so happy to be speaking and understanding French. I felt so accomplished. Furthermore, having someone who probably could easily speak English, but chose to speak French with me was a delightful change of pace. Generally, I walk into a cafe, and attempt to let the server know that I am going to be sitting down outside, and I will be two words in before I am cut off by their English and led to a table.

This is frustrating, to say the least. I understand that it's probably even more frustrating to sit around for 3 minutes while someone tries to fumble out a sentence, but I have to say that with the positive conversational environment that this man fostered, I was able to speak fairly well--at least, well enough to keep the conversation afloat. So, a little patience goes a long way. I was confident with my French and it was awesome!

Since I don't have any pictures for this post (or any pictures at all... camera is broken), I am just going to end it with one of my favorite pictures that has nothing to do with Paris and everything to do with basic awesomeness:

Sincerely,
Corey