Paint your palette blue and grey
Look out on a summer’s day…

The tree lined footpath shades them from the heat of the evening  sun, they are lost in a comfortable chatter about the evening to come. The ground is uneven, she carries her heels in hand.

Entering the restaurant via the terrace, she is struck by the view across the stepped Provençal landscape, a stunning vista. He had wanted to come, to splash out this one night during their budget holiday. She couldn’t resist his enthusiasm, they left the rented farmhouse behind for an evening.

Starry starry night, flaming flowers that brightly blaze
Swirling clouds in violet haze reflect in Vincent’s eyes of china blue.

Guests have come and gone, now they are alone to contemplate the next week. The air is thick with the fragrance of thyme, lavender and roses, there is the clinking of glasses, and a menu to peruse.

They said, “the Bouillabaisse is our speciality mademoiselle” a regional favourite found in many different forms, sublime.

They eat, laugh, enjoy…

A low murmur of contented diners, and the rising volume of cicadas engulf them, as the dusk becomes a sapphire, twinkling darkness.

Colours changing hue, morning fields of amber grain
Weathered faces lined in pain are soothed beneath the artist’s loving hand.

The recommendation of the house? “That would be lovely” she says “a chocolate fondant, such a treat” he smiles, he will steal a taste, but will not indulge. She chats happily, he enjoys an espresso… stoops to his knees. “Marry me?” She laughs – “really?” “Yes, be my wife” and then “I’d love to”…

La Castellaras Restaurant, Var,

Provence, France.

9th September 2000

Thanks to Don Mclean for the loan of his lyrics….