Paris in the Present Tense

Music professor Jules Lacour lives alone in Paris, where he teaches cello at a conservatory and dwells on memories of his past. At 74, he finds himself navigating unexpected challenges involving his family, his music career, and his own mortality. His grandson's serious illness creates financial pressures that lead Jules to consider unconventional solutions. Meanwhile, an opportunity with an American company presents both promise and complications as Jules works to compose a major advertising jingle. A chance encounter with a younger woman reawakens Jules' capacity for romance and connection, even as he continues to process his experiences as a Holocaust survivor and his service in the Algerian War. The story moves between his present-day life and his memories of the past. Through Jules' experiences, the novel explores themes of aging, love, loyalty, and the complex relationship between past trauma and present choices. The narrative examines how music, memory, and human connection intersect in contemporary Paris.

Readers find the book offers an intimate portrait of Paris through John Baxter's personal experiences and observations. Many reviews note his storytelling brings alive the sensory details and hidden corners of the city. Readers appreciate: - Behind-the-scenes glimpses of Parisian life - Cultural and historical context blended with memoir - Humor and wit in depicting French customs - Focus on food, antiques, and neighborhood life Common criticisms: - Disjointed narrative structure - Sometimes meanders off topic - Too much focus on the author's personal life - Limited exploration of certain areas/aspects of Paris Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (468 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (89 reviews) "Feels like walking through Paris with a knowledgeable friend" - Amazon reviewer "More memoir than travel guide, which wasn't what I expected" - Goodreads reviewer "Brings the small daily rhythms of Paris to life" - LibraryThing review

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🗼 John Baxter, originally from Australia, has lived in Paris since 1989 and has written extensively about the city, bringing both an outsider's fresh perspective and an insider's intimate knowledge to his work. 📚 The book is part of Baxter's series of Paris memoirs, which includes "The Most Beautiful Walk in the World" and "The Perfect Meal," each exploring different aspects of Parisian culture and life. 🎨 While writing about Paris's present, Baxter weaves in historical elements from the city's artistic golden age, particularly the 1920s when expatriate writers like Hemingway and Fitzgerald made the city their home. 🍷 Throughout the book, Baxter explores Paris's legendary café culture, visiting both famous establishments and hidden gems that locals frequent, documenting how these institutions continue to shape Parisian social life. 🏛️ Each chapter is centered around a specific Parisian neighborhood or landmark, allowing readers to use the book as both a literary journey and a unique walking guide to the city.