Learning a language is not merely a lesson in the linguistic nuances of a culture, it is a lesson in humility. This I have learned quickly through my expansive collection of children’s books (Babar and Martine being my favorites). I have tried several times in my life to learn French. Convinced that I was once French, it should not be such a difficult task. Somehow all of my many attempts proved unsuccessful. Perhaps complete immersion is the only answer. So here I am, completely immersed. The entire city of Paris is my classroom.

I breath French air, drink French wine (often I must admit), listen to countless hours of French songs…I even sometimes adopt a French attitude which entails less speaking and more gesticulating. This is all in addition to my studies of course, my self-motivated, highly optimistic, “study-in-the-comfort-of-your-own-home” approach. Also known as Rosetta Stone. This method is as effective as I choose it to be. So far so good. I have almost devised a morning routine. Almost. More effective than computer courses or classes even, is speaking with my live-in tutor. He has gone through the travails of learning French, has many tips to share and much compassion to offer. Did I think it would be easy? Did I think I would inhale the sounds emanating from the voices surrounding me and thus gain proficiency? Maybe.