“Une femme sans amour, c’est comme une fleur sans soleil, ça dépérit.” -from Amelie

I was 15 years old when I took this picture. My first time in Paris, I was scared of the metro, scared of the people, scared of the smells. I had had 2 years of French classes at that point, and I could make myself clear when the need would arise, but this was different. I had seen other sight-seeing attractions, but they seemed to not make an impact whatsoever.

Then, when I walked through this little dark alley, taking in the merchant’s stands, the Jewish shops, the chitter chatter, this massive white shape arose, and seemed to push away the darkness. I was astounded. I couldn’t believe that everyone shrugged at this, for lack of words, beast of a building, this beauty, taking it for granted!

I took this picture, hoping it would capture a piece of myself. That, when I would look at it later in life, I would remember what it felt like to first lay eyes on the Sacre Coeur. Even though I have never been back to see it, after that one time, it is still my favourite building, my favourite place in the world.

Many more pictures I took that day. I have pictures where she stands out between the green grass, the flowers in bloom, a blue spotless sky. I bought drawings, postcards, photographs, anything I could lay my hands on. But this picture has captured the essence of that first visit for me. This is what made me fall in love with Paris, with life.

I hope to return soon, something I’ve been saying for years, just to take some pictures, to stroll around carelessly. Until then, I’ll just have to make do with Amelie 🙂

xx Chrisje