Who Said Paris Is a Moveable Feast?

By Alice Nichols

Paris, the city of love and lights, is often referred to as a moveable feast. But who exactly said it

Was it Ernest Hemingway or someone else Let’s dive into the rich history of this quote.

The Origins of “A Moveable Feast”

The phrase “a moveable feast” was originally used in the Christian liturgical calendar to describe holidays that do not fall on a fixed date. These feasts are celebrated on different dates each year, depending on the timing of Easter.

However, the literary reference to “a moveable feast” came from Ernest Hemingway’s memoir of the same name. The book was published posthumously in 1964 and is a collection of Hemingway’s memories of his time living in Paris during the 1920s with his first wife, Hadley Richardson.

Hemingway’s Moveable Feast

In Hemingway’s memoir, he describes Paris as a place where “the memories were still there.” He reminisces about his time spent with other notable writers and artists of the era, such as F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gertrude Stein.

Hemingway writes:

“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.”

The quote has since become iconic and has been interpreted in many different ways. Some see it as an ode to Hemingway’s love for Paris and his nostalgia for his youth. Others see it as a metaphor for how memories can stay with us no matter where we go.

The Legacy of “A Moveable Feast”

Hemingway’s “A Moveable Feast” has become a classic among literature lovers and Paris enthusiasts alike. The book offers a glimpse into the bohemian lifestyle of Paris during the 1920s and provides insight into Hemingway’s writing process.

While the quote “Paris is a moveable feast” may have originated from Hemingway’s memoir, it has taken on a life of its own. It has been used in various contexts, such as in travel guides and as an inspiration for art and fashion.

In Conclusion

Ernest Hemingway may have been the one to popularize the phrase “a moveable feast,” but its origins date back to the Christian liturgical calendar. Regardless of its origins, the phrase has become synonymous with Paris and its enduring charm.

Whether you’re sipping coffee at a sidewalk café or strolling along the Seine River, Paris will always be a moveable feast for those lucky enough to experience it.