Lola in Collonges-la-Rouge, 2024

The Red City
I wandered without expectation,
but the stones, took my breath away.
They weren’t just red. They were radiant,
as if the village had soaked in centuries of sun
and decided to give it back, gently.

Named the most beautiful city in France,
Collonges-la-Rouge wasn't ostentatious. It was extraordinary.
The color alone carried the energy of ancient memories.
The warmth came from centuries of sunsets

Vines reached lazily across the walls,
and the rooftops leaned together like old friends.
Everything felt held.
Even the stillness had weight.

My late dog, Lola paused beside my father, there with me in spirit.

Some places don’t need words.
They give you something older.