In this week's LA Insight, Jonah asks if there is romance in Los Angeles. I pondered that question as I was out running my Saturday errands and decided to look around to see if I could find an answer.
A young man and woman motored up La Brea on a motorcycle, shades of blue (jeans) and gray & white (t-shirts) against black (motorcycle). The only splash of color was a sheer pink scarf that streamed out behind her to tangle with the locks of chestnut hair escaping from beneath her helmet. At every stoplight she leaned closer to him and he tilted his head back, at just the right angle to keep their helmets from hitting, and kissed her tenderly.
Two middle aged women walked hand in hand down Santa Monica Boulevard, laughing and smiling like young lovers as they enjoyed the beautiful morning.
And old Russian man paused on the sidewalk, plucked a flower from a nearby bush, and presented it to his female companion with a rakish tip of his hat. She tucked the flower behind her ear, her arm beneath his, and they continued strolling.
Two young men, holding hands and laughing as they walked a rambunctious puppy towards the local park.
An asian man covered in tattoos and piercings sat on the hood of a truck, sharing a Frappuccino and secret smiles with the tattooed, mohawked woman sitting beside him. They looked so happy sitting there, watching the ebb and flow of Hollywood Boulevard, that I almost asked if I could photograph them.
Does romance exist in Los Angeles? Absolutely.
It might not be the traditional romance of flowers and chocolates, but it's warm and tender and nearly palpable if you are open to it.
I had fun hanging out with you last night. Let's make it happen again sometime, yes?
Posted by: megan | January 15, 2005 at 06:46 PM
Yes, of course romance lives here in L.A. It thrives here. Wander down the beach on a cool november evening, or stroll through downtown Pasadena and you will see it in abundance, if you are looking for it.
You need to write more dear. You rock.
Posted by: Kender | January 16, 2005 at 05:48 PM