Put Sunflower Seeds in Your Pocket So They Grow When You Die (detail)

June 22, 2022

On Beauty

Since February 24, the Ukraine war has been a hot topic of discussion over dinners and drinks. Gradually, I crafted a story based on historical facts to entertain my friends whenever the subject of Ukraine arose.

Here is that story:

During World War II, as the Nazis advanced towards Paris, the French made the decision to surrender without engaging in extensive combat. This news incited a furious response from Winston Churchill, who vehemently expressed his frustration to the French over the phone, exclaiming, "You still have a strong army, why stop fighting?" The French responded, "To preserve Paris, for the city will endure beyond us."

As the war neared its conclusion, Adolf Hitler, facing defeat, issued an order to General Choltitz, the commander of Nazi-occupied Paris, instructing him to burn the city to the ground. However, before Choltitz could carry out this devastating command, he was taken to a balcony overlooking Paris by a Parisian. The Parisian fervently implored him, "Just take a look at it before you destroy it." Moved by the sight, the Nazi general defied his Führer's order.