What is joie de vivre, and why is it a fundamentally French concept? In search of these ineffable qualities of the joy of living, Cathy Yandell explores French literature, history, and culture. While recounting her culture shock when first attending a French wedding—an epic feast ending in the wee hours of the morning—Yandell considers: How does art contribute to daily life? Why are the French more physical than many other cultures? And to what extent is this zest for life exportable?