Le Gorille

Georges Brassens' song 'Le Gorille' is a satirical and provocative piece that uses humor and irony to critique societal norms and the justice system. The song tells the story of a gorilla who escapes from his cage and, in a state of sexual frustration, seeks to lose his virginity. The women who once ogled him now flee in terror, leaving only an old woman and a young judge as potential targets. The gorilla, lacking discernment, chooses the judge, leading to a humorous yet dark conclusion.

Brassens uses the gorilla as a metaphor for primal instincts and the absurdity of societal reactions to sexuality. The women’s initial fascination with the gorilla’s physicality, followed by their sudden fear, highlights the hypocrisy and fickleness of societal attitudes towards sex. The judge, representing the legal system, becomes the unexpected victim, symbolizing the arbitrary and often unjust nature of the law. The judge's cries for his mother at the end of the song mirror the cries of a man he had sentenced to death, further emphasizing the theme of justice and retribution.

The song's playful yet biting tone is characteristic of Brassens' style, known for its clever wordplay and social commentary. 'Le Gorille' challenges listeners to reflect on their own prejudices and the often ridiculous nature of societal norms. By using humor and a seemingly absurd scenario, Brassens effectively critiques the justice system and societal attitudes towards sexuality, making 'Le Gorille' a timeless piece of satirical art.