The Ins and Outs of the Hall: a Parisian Example
Résumé
Strong will and patience are essential requirements for a visitor who wishes to get through the front door of a Parisian apartment building. At the building’s main entrance, the visitor must dial a code to open the door. The residents have to reveal this code to their invited guests. Once the door has been opened by the magic buzz, one might end up in a hall leading to different apartments. Often a visitor will also meet with the female caretaker of the building, the concierge. “May I help you?” she asks as a response to an indecisive look. If there...