Paris Vignettes: Nighttime in Montmartre

The Paris Vignettes series features the inspired work of street photographer William “Bill” O’Such in themed installments

I hadn’t explored Montmartre at night in quite some time, and as I emerged from the Lamarck – Caulaincourt station, I found myself stepping into an enchanting evening. A staircase beckoned me upward (“escalier vers la lumiere”). Strolling along rue Caulaincourt, the cafes (“chez ginette” “montmartrois”) were just beginning to lure diners.

As I meandered along the street, a set of classic stairs captivated my attention (“vers la haut Montmartre”). Though tempted to ascend, I resisted, knowing that friends awaited me for dinner. Hurrying past bicycles (“vélos le nuit”) under the night sky, I caught sight of a couple engaged in conversation, descending the stairs (“descendant”) just before arriving at my destination. It was then that I resolved to return sooner than later, recognizing the magical allure of Montmartre that reveals itself at night.

A few days later, when I returned to climb the hill, gentle raindrops (“au lapin agile”) began to fall, adding a shimmer to the streets. Passing by a renowned restaurant (“la maison rose”), umbrellas had unfurled (“apres un pluie”), adding to the ambiance. There’s nothing like savoring the charms of Montmartre in the evening (“bonne nuit Montmartre”).