Noe Dela Fuente Jr. MD

19/10/2024

Paris to Versailles to Polène to Merci to A.P.C.

Ending my Phoenix series here with Girlfriend, a song with an upbeat tempo but bittersweet lyrics. I can only think of another band who does this and they maybe the best on this type of polarity - talking about Maroon 5 i.e. Misery

The song “Girlfriend” by Phoenix is about the emotional complexity of relationships, particularly the feelings of longing, heartache, and the ups and downs of love. While the lyrics are somewhat ambiguous, the song seems to tell a story of someone dealing with the aftermath of a breakup or unrequited love. The protagonist reflects on the pain of separation, the difficulty of moving on, and the bittersweet memories of the relationship.

At the same time, the upbeat tempo and bright, catchy melody contrast with the underlying melancholy of the lyrics, which is a common trait in Phoenix’s music. This creates a sense of emotional ambivalence, where the singer is simultaneously mourning the loss of the relationship while accepting its end and trying to move forward.

Overall, “Girlfriend” touches on themes of love, regret, and the emotional turbulence that often accompanies romantic relationships, capturing both the joy and the heartache that come with them.

Just like any trip, everything comes to an end but the nostalgia lingers.

19/10/2024

When all the people seated on other tables have white hair, I guess that’s a sign that you’ve made it?

La Flottille restaurant, located near the Grand Canal in the Gardens of Versailles, is steeped in history, closely tied to the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles itself. The restaurant occupies a historic building that dates back to the reign of Louis XIV, who commissioned the Grand Canal and surrounding structures to serve as leisure spots for the royal court.

Originally, the area around the Grand Canal was used for boating and leisurely strolls by the French monarchy and their guests. The building that houses La Flottille may have once been used to store the small boats (or flotilla) that the court used on the canal, hence the name “La Flottille.” Over the centuries, as the palace and its gardens became a popular tourist destination, the building was repurposed to serve visitors seeking refreshment.

Throughout its history, La Flottille has evolved from a simple canal-side establishment into a full-service restaurant, retaining its rustic charm while offering a refined dining experience. It has remained an iconic stop for those exploring the gardens, combining historical ambiance with French culinary tradition.

The restaurant’s name, “La Flottille,” pays homage to the fleet of boats that once sailed the Grand Canal, continuing to evoke the leisure and elegance of the Sun King’s era.

19/10/2024

App or Map?

19/10/2024

“Lisztomania - from the mess to the masses”

Liztomania by Phoenix is a playful and introspective song that explores the concept of obsession, particularly with fame, music, and cultural phenomena. The title refers to “Lisztomania,” a term coined in the 19th century to describe the intense fan frenzy surrounding the famous composer Franz Liszt. Liszt’s concerts inspired near-hysteria among his fans, much like the kind of celebrity worship seen with modern pop stars. **(see side story below)

In the song, Phoenix reflects on the highs and lows of such obsession, both personally and culturally. While the lyrics are somewhat abstract, the song can be seen as exploring the idea of being caught up in a moment of passion, whether in music, relationships, or life in general. It can also be interpreted as a commentary on the nature of fame, artistic pressure, and the fleeting nature of cultural trends.

Overall, “Lisztomania” uses the historical reference as a metaphor for emotional intensity, the desire for connection, and the pursuit of something bigger than oneself, all delivered with Phoenix’s signature upbeat, catchy sound.

Side story of wifey being Listz:
Taylor Swift changed the color of her costume during the Reputation album of her Eras concert today in Miami and wifey screamed, ran and jumped all over the house apparently that might be the signal of the upcoming release of the Reputation Album Taylor’s Version. 


19/10/2024

I came across a French band named Phoenix when I was in college. Until now it’s the only French pop-punk-alternative-rock band I know. I had mixed feelings when they performed during the closing of the Paris Olympics because the hipster me wanted to keep the band to myself. But I guess it’s good for the band because the spotlight was on them again. It made the Paris Olympics closing infinitely better than the opening. That’s all I have to say. This is 1901.

“1901” by Phoenix is about nostalgia for a past era, but it’s not necessarily a literal reference to the year 1901. The song’s lyrics reflect on the idea of idealizing the past while acknowledging that it wasn’t as perfect as it might seem. Lead singer Thomas Mars has mentioned in interviews that the song is a commentary on Paris and how people often romanticize it, imagining it as more glamorous or idyllic than it actually is.

The band wrote “1901” as a kind of tribute to this sense of nostalgia and how people create myths around cities, times, or experiences, often remembering them as better than they really were. The upbeat, energetic sound contrasts with the theme of imperfect memory, making it feel like a celebration of both the real and imagined past.

In essence, “1901” explores the idea of longing for something that’s been idealized, knowing that the reality was likely quite different.

#1901

19/10/2024

My Own Spin
Mélange de Laine
Striped shirt
Textured tie
Braided belt
Double pleated pants
NB 9060s

19/10/2024

20/09/2024

L’Entrecôte 1959 is a famous restaurant in Bordeaux, France, known for its simple but iconic menu, featuring a single dish: steak frites (steak and fries), served with a signature secret sauce.

L’Entrecôte’s menu is remarkably straightforward, focusing on one main dish: sliced entrecôte steak, cooked to your preferred level of doneness, accompanied by a generous portion of golden, crispy French fries.

Famously no-reservation, meaning diners typically line up outside the restaurant before it opens. Despite the wait, the experience is well worth it for many who rave about the food.

Classic French bistro style, with simple yet elegant decor. It offers a lively and bustling dining atmosphere, characteristic of a traditional French brasserie.

L’Entrecôte has four dining floors and we were seated at the top floor. We celebrated Nathan’s birthday “salubong” here.

While it doesn’t offer an elaborate menu, L’Entrecôte excels at what it does: serving high-quality steak and fries with a delicious secret sauce. For both tourists and locals, it’s a must-visit spot in Bordeaux for an authentic French dining experience that feels both casual and timeless.