The Magic of the Louvre

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I entered the Louvre. We visited lots of museums and saw lots of beautiful paintings. But this was the Louvre.

I was curious to find out.

But I didn’t run over anyone, officer, I swear!!!

If I had to pick one word to describe the Louvre it would probably be lots and lots of people.

Yes, that was more than one but you must give me a break on this one.

We arrived on a Sunday and to our pleasant surprise admittance was free. That was the good news. The bad news – Everyone in town was in on the secret resulting in the longest line I ever saw. Yes, that includes Disneyland.

Being in a wheelchair can have it’s advantages and on this particular busy day the advantage included bypassing the long line and getting right in. I was a tad embarrassed as I rolled past the waiting crowd but I have to admit, once I entered the lovely air conditioned building my mind was put to ease. 

 

I adore her but she must wait her turn

I fought the urge to race towards the Mona Lisa. She was lovely but she would have to wait. I would not be a typical tourist with one thing on his mind. I would branch out and seek other talent.

I was surprised by my emotions. These particular emotions of mine created questions that I knew would require answers. What were the painters thinking, I asked, as their work came to life. Was a painter like a writer? Do their characters take over? Does each stroke of their brush hold a secret held only by the creator?

Did the painters miss their characters when their work was complete? Did they dream of their work at night wishing they could have had them to themselves just a little longer?

 

She was lovely but mysterious 

As I stood in line to see The Mona Lisa I was curious to all the secrets she held. Could she read the minds of those who crossed her path? If so did she promise not to tell? 

Does that explain her smile?

At the end of our visit I had a strange feeling the paintings were saying goodbye. They knew we came from far away and were happy to share their stories with us. They were a polite bunch and open to interpretation. Not at all fussy or rude like some people worried they would be. 

I hope to see them again and when I do I’ll delve a little deeper into the magic of their creations and if that happens I’ll push a little hard for answers to my questions. 

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