Experiencing Delights in the City of Lights: A Personal account by Glynnis MacNicol
In the heart of the pandemic, Glynnis MacNicol, a 46-year-old single woman without children, found herself in a state of isolation that would last for 16 long months. This isolation was not in her bustling hometown of New York City, but rather in a small apartment in Manhattan.
Feeling the weight of the isolation, MacNicol decided to make a change. She booked a flight to Paris, subletting a friend's apartment in the city of love. This move marked the beginning of a journey of self-discovery, grief, and social reconnection, all set against the backdrop of a city altered by the pandemic.
In August 2021, Paris was quiet. Many locals were away, and fewer tourists were present, creating a sense of both physical and emotional isolation. Yet, MacNicol did not let this deter her. She engaged actively with the city and her social circle, meeting single friends for rosé-filled brunches, picnics, outdoor dance parties, and taking short trips nearby.
Her book, I'm Mostly Here to Enjoy Myself, explores this period of her life in detail. It reveals her exploration of intimacy and dating through a hook-up app, challenging her perceptions about aging and attractiveness, and reinforcing a theme of reclaiming pleasure and vitality in midlife.
The themes of MacNicol's work focus on isolation, loneliness, aging, self-discovery, and the pursuit of joy in life despite circumstances. She reflects on the tension between inward emotional experience and outward observation, highlighting feelings of ambivalence and the need for mental "crutches" during difficult moments.
The narrative addresses the challenges of being single and isolated, juxtaposed with moments of pleasure and connection found in both friendship and romantic encounters. The book's title reflects this attitude of embracing life and enjoyment, even when confronted with societal expectations about age and invisibility.
In summary, MacNicol's work is a candid memoir of navigating solitude, grief, and social reconnection in a city altered by the pandemic, emphasizing themes of empowerment, pleasure, and resilience in middle age. It serves as a testament to the human spirit's ability to find joy and connection even in the most challenging of times.
During her stay in Paris, MacNicol embraced a new lifestyle, characterized by travel and social engagements, aiming to escape the isolation she experienced due to the pandemic. This travel-focused lifestyle allowed her to reconnect with herself and others, offering moments of pleasure and inspiration amidst the challenges of midlife.
