defining moments

have you ever thought about how cities are defined?  i find it fascinating that when you get to know someone you can figure out what kind of city they would like and where they would feel most comfortable.  i have been told on numerous occasions that san francisco or seattle would suit me perfectly.

so i am sitting here (destination sitter) pondering how i can define paris.  i mentioned in the previous post that it is a city of layers which is very true if you think about it geographically (i hope this is the right term).  i could be cliché and refer to it as the city of lights but really, most cities are filled with light and block out the stars, so i really don't think that is fair.

but something paris is, is life.  it is truly a multi-sensory expedition to reminding you how alive you are.  this morning on the metro i not only had the smell of sweat creep into my nostrils but that all too familiar smell of eau de hangover the guy next to me was wearing.  then there is the familiar stench of homeless man vomit and the reek of dog/human piss in the streets.  take a deep breath and take it all in because what you are smelling, that undeniable odor, that putrid smell is one of life.

considering how nauseating paris can be at moments i was surprised that i came to the conclusion that these smells make me alive.  one, because i am smelling them.  but two, eau de hangover dude must have had one kick ass party last night and really enjoyed himself.  homeless guy and urine in the streets are only the signatures of a city living a full life, as stinky as it can be, even rank has its charm.