About the French

Finally, I have found my book and here are some facts about the French:

• Fitting in and making friends was harder than she had expected because of the fact that the French are not used to meeting foreigners. For them, friendships form over years, at school or university.
  
• On drink parties serving alcohol is very much a male domain.
  
• In France oblique messages are rewarded as subtle and sophisticated while direct language is considered too blunt.
  
• The book French or Foe, which was written by another expat, advised her that she should pretend to be a chair on cocktail parties. So it would be easier for her when she is ignored. Who would make an effort to speak with an chair? (But they are not rude, they are simply French).
  
• In Paris parks you are not allowed to sit on the grass-you are supposed to admire it, not use it.
  
• Dressing up is very important. No matter where you go. Even if you only rush to the bakery, dress up. In Paris, failure to dress up leads to instant condemnation.
  
• Women, as well as men, are expected to pay close attention to their appearances. To make the most of yourself is a important rule.
  
• The only drunks you see in Paris are clochards, people who live on the street. For Sarah, this seemed surreal compared to Australia.
  
• Roots are everything in France. They are attached to the region where they grew up.
  
• The women in France, particularly Parisian women, perceive those of the same sex as rivals, not as potential friends.
  
• French women didn’t get the vote right until 1944 (three decades later than women in Britain). They haven’t fought for their rights because the haven been treated with respect.
  
• Being funny isn’t considered as feminine.
  
• When the French do something, they like to be good at it. They don’t want to look funny or foolish (e.g. when they are dancing).
  
• Lateness is institutionalised in Paris. If you arrive for dinner on time your hosts might not be pleased.

Sarah’s conclusion: It just takes time in France.