Desertification is not a word that you would commonly hear in America, but it is often mentioned in French news broadcasts.
The Oxford Languages dictionary defines desertification as “the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.”
But this term is not exclusively reserved to define land conditions. In France, it is usually used in a social context.
Deserted streets and closed shops… This is the problem that plagues many small communities… and probably the world over. Due to the exodus of young people to cities and intensified Internet competition, many small businesses (grocery stores, butcher shops, bakers, doctors, etc.) have closed and left the locals in a state of social desertification.
But besides regular commerce, what locals miss most are cafés, bistros, and restaurants. Social waterholes. The disappearance of these meeting places significantly degrades their lifestyle.
Traditionally, friends would meet at cafés and bistros to chat and vent. The local café visit could be seen as a substitute for a shrink’s visit.
But France is not the only country suffering from desertification. The problem is worldwide, also observable in America. Surprised? How many cafés or bistros do you have in your community? Probably none or very few. And fast-food businesses or dreary bars do not qualify as cafés.
Starbucks establishments, by the way, are not authentic cafés. They are just pale imitations of the real McCoy… Bistros tend to focus more on a friendlier atmosphere and less on getting patrons in and out the door.
We don’t need more freeways and shopping centers. Human beings are very similar to canines. They are pack animals, and to be contented they need to socialize. Why do you think that hounds are so eager to visit dog parks?
“I think we should have more coffeehouses, more cafes, more “third places.” More places where people can get together that’s not work, not home, and where they can interact with people who are different from them.” ~ Eric Weiner
Amen!
Alain