Impossible City: Paris in the Twenty-First Century

Kuper is a shrewd observer of Paris, a naïf getting to understand a complex, glittery, beautiful, and often cruel city. He has experienced Paris as a human being and as a journalist, and has watched it change over two decades. This century, Paris has globalized, gentrified, and been shocked into realizing its role as the crucible of civilizational conflict. This decade, Parisians have lived through a sequence of shocks, such as terrorist attacks, record floods, heatwaves, the burning of Notre Dame, the storming of the city by gilets jaunes, and the pandemic. Now, as the Olympics come to town, France is busy executing the Grand Paris project, the most serious attempt yet to knit together the bejewelled city with its neglected suburbs.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2024
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Simon Kuper, a renowned observer, delves into a captivating blend of memoir and anthropology in his book, "The Sunday Times." Through his experiences as both a human being and a journalist, Kuper offers an insightful exploration of the intricate, dazzling, and often harsh city of Paris. Having lived in Paris for over two decades, Kuper has witnessed firsthand the city's transformation.

In the past century, Paris has undergone a remarkable globalization, gentrification, and a profound realization of its pivotal role in shaping civilizational conflicts. It oscillates between being a multicultural paradise and facing challenges. This decade has been marked by a series of seismic events, including terrorist attacks, record-breaking floods, scorching heatwaves, the devastating fire at Notre Dame, the tumultuous protests by gilets jaunes, and the global pandemic.

As the Olympics approach, France is diligently executing the Grand Paris project, an ambitious initiative aimed at bridging the city's glittering allure with its neglected suburbs. This project represents the most significant attempt yet to harmonize the vibrant city with its surrounding areas.

"The Sunday Times" offers a captivating memoir of contemporary Paris, devoid of the usual clichés. Kuper's writing provides a nuanced and authentic portrayal of the city, capturing its essence through personal anecdotes, cultural insights, and historical observations. He delves into the diverse neighborhoods, the vibrant art scene, the culinary delights, and the complex social dynamics that shape the city's identity.

Kuper's experiences as a middle-aged Parisian and his observations as a journalist lend depth to his narrative. He shares poignant moments of his life in the city, from attending football matches with his children in the notorious banlieues to navigating the aftermath of terrorist attacks on his family's neighborhood. His insights into the city's politics, culture, and social issues provide a comprehensive understanding of its complexities.

Through his book, Kuper invites readers to explore the multifaceted tapestry of Paris. He challenges preconceptions and encourages a deeper appreciation for the city's rich history, diverse cultures, and ongoing struggles. "The Sunday Times" serves as a valuable guide for those seeking to discover or re-discover the magic of Paris, offering a fresh perspective on a city that has captivated generations.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 174 x 223 x 50 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800816480
Edition number: Main