Radical Exploration of Paris

A Walker's Guide to Paris: Exploring the City's Past, Present, and Future

In his acclaimed work, "The Invention of Paris," author Eric Hazan takes the reader on a captivating walk from Ivry to Saint-Denis, roughly tracing the meridian that divides the city into east and west. Along the way, he guides us through a Paris that is both familiar and forgotten, weaving together historical anecdotes, geographical observations, and literary references.

Through this immersive journey, Hazan delineates the most fascinating and forgotten parts of Paris, past and present, with the aid of detailed maps. Planning and modernization have accelerated the erasure of the city's revolutionary history, but by walking and observing, Hazan shows us how we can regain our knowledge of the Paris that was once the domain of Robespierre, the Commune, Sartre, and the May '68 uprising.

Hazan's personal background as a surgeon, publisher, and social critic adds depth and nuance to his exploration of the city. He vividly illustrates the intricate relationship between a city and the personality it helps to form, drawing on his own life experiences.

As we traverse the familiar landmarks, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, the Pompidou Centre, the Gare du Nord, and Montmartre, we are also led through the city's forgotten alleyways and arcades, uncovering a Paris that exists beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. Hazan's keen observations and insightful anecdotes offer a unique perspective, challenging us to see the city in a new light.

Through this captivating walking tour, Hazan invites us to reconsider our understanding of Paris, its past, and its possible futures. He reminds us that by engaging with the city through the act of walking, we can rediscover the hidden layers of its history and the traces of its revolutionary spirit that continue to shape the urban landscape.

Ultimately, Hazan's "A Walker's Guide to Paris" is a testament to the power of observation and the transformative potential of exploring a city on foot. It is a invitation to rediscover the Paris that lies beyond the surface, to uncover the stories and memories that have been obscured by the relentless march of progress, and to reimagine the city's future through the lens of its past.

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