I thought I’d be freezing in France in October. In fact, the temperatures are perfectly acceptable—even for me (typically shivering when it’s below 20 °C), and even if you can’t expect to warm up quickly once at home like in Canada.

That’s right, many French people just tough it out—no heat or the bare minimum.

While they get praised for making the right “earth-friendly choice,” the grim reality is that too many people can’t afford to pay energy bills.

“I got a ‘thank you for doing your part and saving energy’ letter last spring,” my mum laughed. “Yeah, it’s an easy choice to make when you’re fucking poor.”

I’m really not sure energy poverty should be praised. I don’t think it should be a thing either. I’m not a big fan of global warming and I love Mother Earth as well but I find it quite cynical to pretend the new eco-friendly move is no heat. “Layer up!” “Blankets are your best friend!” “Choose thick curtains!”

For fuck’s sake. It does get cold in France. Heating your place shouldn’t be a luxury.

This is no way to live.

It’s not cold yet, just occasionally rainy.

Nobody is looking forward to experiencing colder temperatures and yet another winter without heat.