There is a word in French for one who ambles idly about town — flâneur. It is a wonderfully evocative word, conjuring images of louche characters from jazz age novels, hats perched atop their heads at jaunty angles, walking slowly while smoking cigarettes and conversing in low, mellifluous voices…
Manhattan is second only to Paris as a flâneur’s paradise. I had the pleasure to «se flâner» through Manhattan for a few days at the beginning of December 2013. From Midtown to Downtown and back again, wandering the city at a leisurely pace, soaking in its energy and its personality.
This monograph tracks that journey. I present to you New York City from a flâneur’s perspective — grab your hat and walk with me…