Montmartre Majesty

By Douglas J. Lanzo

Montmartre majesty
crowned by Sacré-Coeur,
gleams at me from cupolas
capping domed grandeur;

Within, gilded mosaics 
of Christ’s triumphant reign,
arch rainbow-hued stained glass 
illuming saintly panes.

This sacred heart of Paris,
pulses my veins with life,
where famed artists communed
to toast Moulin Rouge nightlife.

Roaming packed markets
where vendors peddle wares,
I imbibe croissants wafting
chocolate scent throughout the air;

Painters at wood easels 
capture warmth and light,
as vibrant models pose,
smiling with delight.

Strolling past gardens
where Renoir often gazed,
I witness flowered beauty
in impressionist ways.

Partaking chocolate pie
at La Maison Rose,
my table marks the place 
where Dalí’s dreams found repose.

Refreshed, I pass a vineyard
to The Agile Rabbit cabaret,
where Picasso made a portrait
for the owner — named Frédé, 

There, transfixed by romance
of Édith Piaf’s La Vie en Rose —
I revel in its lesson —
that true love removes sorrows…

Filled with song and joy,
I saunter to carousels,
lit by children’s faces —
golden lights casting their spells. 

What majesty lives on 
within this paradise,
treasured by all people
beyond measure, without price.

Doug is an award-winning American author whose Newbery-nominated debut novel, The Year of the Bear, won the 2023 Ames Award for Best Young Adult Books and whose second book, I Have Lived, was named Best Novella of 2024 at the American Book Fest Awards.  52 of Doug’s poems won contests in 2025, and Doug’s poetry has been published in 87 literary journals and anthologies and two books around the world.  He and his award-winning haiku poet twin sons enjoy nature, fishing, tennis, snorkeling and hiking.  His Author’s website is at www.douglaslanzo.com.