In "Paris to the Moon," Adam Gopnik reflects on the sadness of realizing that change is an inevitable part of life, something beyond our control. This revelation resonates deeply with the experiences one encounters in a city like Paris, where the essence of things is constantly in flux. Gopnik captures the bittersweet nature of this knowledge, evoking a sense of nostalgia intertwined with acceptance.

The feeling of sadness comes from understanding that time alters everything, including cherished moments and places. Gopnik's writing illustrates how this awareness can evoke a uniquely Parisian sentiment, characterized by both appreciation and melancholy. The beauty of the city lies in its ability to evoke such profound reflections on change and the passage of time.