Late summer is settling in!
Hello, and welcome as we continue our journey through the Count of Monte Cristo.
This past month, I had the wonderful opportunity to stay in Marseille France for a few weeks - one of the book’s primarily locations. I was able to enjoy the southern coastal town of France and see the historic district. These buildings come from the same historic time period Edmond Dantes and crew would have inhabited. It was gorgeous. I was also able to see the Chateau D’if during my stay and paint the moment where Danglar and Fernand got their idea to remove Dantes from the picture.
I really enjoyed painting this scene, the quote describing the birds and sycamores was very descriptive and took me back to the days of cozy European cafe’s and people watching. It goes as follows, “… they sat under the budding leaves of the plane-trees and sycamores, in the branches of which happy band of birds was serenading one of the first fine days of spring.” What innocence compared to the sinister intentions.
Having more down time, I was able to progress into the book. Edmond met Abbe’ Farria - whom shepherd him and ultimately gave him an escape. He then managed to get on a smuggler ship and eventually find the treasure on the Island of Monte Cristo. It is interesting to see the parallels of being impatient and rushing for the next phases of life pre-prison. To now being more calculative and very patient with every decision to the next phases of life.
It reminded me of the difference in culture in Europe compared to here in the U.S. A reminder to take things slow and think carefully about decisions.
Until next time,
Rebecca
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