Poetic Snowscapes of Paris

The backyard of my friend’s house in Sceaux offers breathtaking scenery. This year, Paris has been particularly cold; temperatures have hovered around freezing since Christmas. Winters in Paris are usually gloomy and gray, with occasional warm sunshine that lifts spirits. In this dry cold, it remains comfortable as long as you dress warmly enough. Daily life continues as usual, with people rushing to work and classes.

Cold waves from Siberia pass through, dropping temperatures below zero and widening the day-night temperature gap. However, these conditions do not affect Parisian commerce or cultural activities. The "Picasso and the Masters" special exhibition at the Grand Palais still draws long lines, and major exhibitions continue to arrive one after another. Theaters and opera houses remain full, as do street cafes and restaurants. Libraries are no exception. During the harsh winter, Parisians prefer indoor cultural programs and reading. For vacations, they almost always head to the Alps for skiing, which becomes the best outdoor activity of the season.

Since Christmas, cold waves from Northern Europe have surged southward in succession. Snowflakes appear occasionally but last only briefly. Yesterday, however, Paris was unbearably cold, and snow fell all day long. The white snow outside the window made Paris look extraordinary, especially poetic and picturesque, resembling the landscapes of the North. The misty Paris metropolis appeared even more beautiful and enchanting.

Yesterday, I happened to go out for some errands. Walking on the snow-covered streets felt unique. I took the light rail to the University City and enjoyed the beautiful views of Montsouris Park along the way. All parks and gardens in Paris were closed for safety reasons, so we could only admire this rare sight through iron fences. Then, I took the RER B line to Sceaux. The snow scenery along the route was fully visible. Upon arriving at my friend’s house, their backyard, covered in a layer of white snow, looked incredibly poetic and breathtaking, bringing joy to body and mind. I am grateful for the creation of heaven and earth, allowing me to become intoxicated in the embrace of beauty, unable to extricate myself.