I learned a new concept today.
The idea of the Flâneur was invented in 19th century Paris. The word
carried a set of rich associations: the Parisian man of leisure, the
idler, the urban explorer, the connoisseur of the street.
In todays terms it could be considered ‘intentionally wandering in your city’. We are so adapt at getting
as quick as possible from Point A to Point B. It’s so routine and utilitarian
that we constantly miss all the city, all the life, between those two points.
We are busy. We are not experiencing or feeling the marvelous tiny details of
our neighborhoods.
I'm very guilty of this. My day typically exists
of this type of busyness, running back and fourth to numerous places trying to
be as speedy and efficient as possible. Even after driving some of my cities
streets for twenty years, I'm still discovering things I have previously missed.
I love my city. I
love the people that live here. I love the parks and streets. I love all the cultures represented. I love the change and transformation. I love the hidden secrets. I love the quirks and nuances.
I want to experience more of that. I’m
going to become more of a Flâneur.
