11 Unconventional French Customs Decoding the Insider Nuances
11 Unconventional French Customs Decoding the Insider Nuances - The Art of Greeting - Decoding the Bise
The French greeting "la bise," which involves kissing each other on the cheek, is a deeply rooted social ritual that varies in its nuances across different regions of France.
The number of kisses exchanged reflects the level of intimacy and familiarity between individuals, with more kisses typically shared among close friends and family.
While the bise is an essential part of daily life in France, its etiquette can be complex, and the gesture may be shortened or omitted in certain formal or business contexts.
Despite these intricacies, the bise remains a unique and culturally significant way for the French to connect with one another.
The number of kisses exchanged during the French greeting "la bise" can vary from 2 to 4 depending on the region and level of intimacy between the individuals.
La bise experienced a resurgence in popularity after the social and political upheaval of May 1968, coinciding with the rise of the hippie movement in the United States.
This suggests that the gesture became a way to reaffirm social connections and intimacy in the aftermath of a period of societal change.
Interestingly, the bise is often initiated by the person of higher social status or age, or by a woman in a mixed-gender interaction, highlighting the nuanced etiquette and power dynamics underlying this seemingly simple gesture.
While the bise is commonly used among female friends and between men and women who are friends, a simple handshake is often deemed sufficient between men, unless they are very close friends, showcasing the distinct social cues associated with the practice.
The bise is not universally applied in all situations, as it may be shortened or omitted altogether in more formal or business-related contexts, underscoring the context-dependent nature of this cultural tradition.
Interestingly, the regional variations in the number of kisses exchanged during the bise suggest that this greeting is not a universal, homogeneous practice across France, but rather reflects the diversity and nuances of local customs and preferences.
What else is in this post?
- 11 Unconventional French Customs Decoding the Insider Nuances - The Art of Greeting - Decoding the Bise
- 11 Unconventional French Customs Decoding the Insider Nuances - Aesthetic Appreciation - The French Pursuit of Beauty
11 Unconventional French Customs Decoding the Insider Nuances - Aesthetic Appreciation - The French Pursuit of Beauty
The French have a deep-rooted appreciation for beauty and aesthetics, which is evident in their cultural practices, art, and everyday life.
From the symbolist aesthetic of Charles Baudelaire to the embrace of "jolie laide" or "beautiful ugly" features, the French have a unique understanding of what constitutes beauty.
This appreciation for aesthetics is further exemplified in the French girl aesthetic, which prioritizes natural beauty and effortless style over heavily made-up appearances.
The term "aesthetics" was first coined in Latin by the German philosopher Alexander Gottlieb Baumgarten and later gained prominence in French philosophical discourse towards the end of the 18th century.
French philosophers of the Ancien Régime, such as Voltaire and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, wrote influential treatises on the nature of beauty and taste, laying the groundwork for the country's enduring appreciation of aesthetics.
In the context of art and literature, French thinkers like Charles Baudelaire developed a "symbolist aesthetic" that valued the perceptual and emotional dimensions of artistic expression over pure form or function.
The French concept of "jolie laide," or "beautiful ugly," reflects a unique appreciation for unconventional beauty that embraces imperfections and individuality in the human form.
The "French girl aesthetic," characterized by natural beauty, effortless style, and a certain je ne sais quoi, has become a global phenomenon, influencing beauty routines and fashion trends worldwide.
French beauty products and routines often prioritize enhancing natural features, such as minimal eye makeup, a clean and dewy complexion, and bold lip colors, over heavy, transformative cosmetics.
The French pursuit of beauty extends beyond the individual and is manifested in the elegant architecture, picturesque streets, and well-curated cultural events that define the country's urban landscapes and lifestyle.