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Alexandra Allen's avatar

“When the basics are elevated, the more complex plates get a boost too.”

So true!

Love that you loved Paris. Living there was one of my coolest life experiences, so much culture to soak up.

And very cool about your connection to La Chapelle!

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Janahan Sivaraman's avatar

It was up there, for sure. So much more than my expectations had in mind!

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Shana Weisberg's avatar

Damn it felt good to read a perspective on Paris from someone who isn’t white 🙌 !!!! I love that you found a connection to your Tamil heritages in La Chapelle, could experience the joy of hearing your mother tongue of Tamil being interwoven with French, and that you stayed in a more local / less touristy area. Thanks as well for the mention!

Also random Q -- but did you try salted butter?!

Next time you’re in Paris let me know! I’ll take you to some great Vietnamese spots

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Janahan Sivaraman's avatar

Happy to share my perspective! La Chapelle was an experience. Made me feel confident to venture to other Tamil areas around the world.

I didn't buy any butter directly; however, it was on all my sandwiches and breads. Not 100%. sure if it was salted though.

I will 100% take you up on your offer next time I'm in Paris. And next time you're in New York, let me know! I'd be happy to show you some of my favs :)

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Sandra Yvonne's avatar

It was your birthday?! Why didn't you mention that? Happy belated!

All this food....drooling

"It was so dope to hear my mother tongue being interleaved with French. It made me realize my people are all around the world - ready to welcome me with open arms."

That's beautiful 😌

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Janahan Sivaraman's avatar

I didn't mention it because it slipped my mind. We were in a conversation of philosophy - birthdays feel small next to it. I'm so glad you enjoyed that line. It made my heart jump every time I read it :)

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Yuhp's avatar

Happy belated birthday!

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Janahan Sivaraman's avatar

Appreciate it, Sayid!

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Thunderclap's avatar

Same with art to me.. I wonder how men look at a art for hours (I’m Gnana soonium 🤣)

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Janahan Sivaraman's avatar

Most art I feel like that. Sometimes I find art that resonates with me. What's a gnana soonium? I love to learn the various regional Tamil slang :)

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Thunderclap's avatar

ஞானசூனியம் It’s funny way of insulting someone who does not get/understand especially art.. literally means “one devoid of wisdom”

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Janahan's avatar

நான் அடுத்த உரையாடலிலெ பாவிக்க போ போறேன். எனனை சொலிக்கொடுத்துக்கு நன்றி 🙏🏾

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Thunderclap's avatar

Not really sir:)

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John Nicholas's avatar

Dig the new name Jay! Seems like you’re building humility and accelerated learning into your life and writing. People are often bowled by “When last did you admit you were wrong” but not you.

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Janahan Sivaraman's avatar

Thanks, John! Being right feels good but doesn't accomplish much else. Understanding is the basis of analysis and decision-making. Accepting the future is unknown, that are major skills that will help, no matter what happens.

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Alvin's avatar

> At random corner cafes, we ordered plates of cheese (and bread) that were more flavorful than fancy French restaurants I’ve been to in the USA.

I kind of had a similar experience in Italy. I tried gelato in Pisa, and it was sooo good. It was very flavourful and, most importantly, just sweet enough. I just haven't tried gelato in North America that isn't over-the-top, mouth-dryingly sweet.

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Janahan Sivaraman's avatar

that mouth-dryingly sweet sensation is all too familiar to me. I get that when I eat most buttercream frosting. And there's no way to fix it except not taking another bite.

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