Les Plaisirs Démodés

Charles Aznavour's song 'Les Plaisirs Démodés' is a nostalgic ode to the timeless nature of love and intimacy, set against the backdrop of a modern, bustling nightclub. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple who, despite the chaotic and loud environment filled with psychedelic lights and pop music, find solace and connection in each other's embrace. The song contrasts the superficiality and transience of contemporary trends with the enduring and profound nature of genuine affection.

The song begins by describing the setting—a trendy nightclub where the latest pop records are played at maximum volume. Amidst this modern chaos, the couple reminisces about their first meeting and their subsequent visits to the club, which have become a sort of pilgrimage for them. The lyrics highlight the discomfort of the physical setting, yet it is in this very place that they find a deeper connection, dancing 'joue contre joue' (cheek to cheek), a dance style that evokes a sense of old-fashioned romance.

Aznavour's lyrics delve into the idea that, despite the changing times and evolving social norms, the essence of love remains unchanged. The couple's dance becomes a metaphor for their relationship—intimate, personal, and disconnected from the surrounding noise. The spoken interlude towards the end of the song reinforces this sentiment, as the singer reflects on how dancing cheek to cheek, much like their parents did, brings a unique and timeless joy. The song ultimately suggests that while the world around us may change, the fundamental human experience of love and connection endures.