Are the French mean?
In response to Stephanie's post, here is what I have to say about the French alledged rudeness and meanness.
Yes, when I read Almost French a few years ago, I felt that Sarah Turnbull was a particularly sensitive and whiny expat. I did not feel that the expats I knew were having such a hard time at the hands of the French. It never occurred to me that maybe they were hiding their troubles from me since, after all, I was part of the enemy. For example, I don’t remember Stephanie telling me about that ballroom dancing episode. Turnbull has classical complaints about the French: it takes a long time to “tame” them (I know, it took us about 10 years to get friendly with some particularly tough, unsmiling cashiers at our local supermarket), the women are so elegant and intimidating (I feel the same way and there are some clothing stores I would never walk into, not only because I can’t afford the clothes, but because I would feel horribly judged by the clerks).
So, yes, I can see Turnbull’s point about some French, particularly some Parisians, being a bit snooty and not super friendly. She also complains about her French husband’s friends who are alternatively nice and cold to her. But I can think of one friend of EJ’s in the US who makes me feel the same way. Sometimes I can talk to him; sometimes he acts all distant and superior. In any case, if you will remember, the book also features some nice French people like the Palais Royal keeper who lets them drink Champagne in the gardens despite the rules because it is their wedding day.
While Turnbull has a point about the French, I felt she was overreacting and being a cry baby. Does that make me a mean French person? Probably.
kelloucq
le 20.05.08 à 08:51
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