L'homme Pressé

Noir Désir's song "L'homme Pressé" is a scathing critique of the modern media-driven society and the relentless pursuit of success and wealth. The protagonist of the song is a self-proclaimed 'man in a hurry,' who is deeply entrenched in the world of media and business. He boasts about his omnipresence and omniscience, claiming to be a reference point for the world, despite his superficial understanding of it. This character is a metaphor for the superficiality and arrogance often associated with media moguls and influential figures in contemporary society.

The lyrics highlight the protagonist's detachment from humanity and his obsession with immediate profits and media favors. He describes himself as a 'daily militant of inhumanity,' emphasizing his lack of empathy and moral compass. The repeated references to his wealth and business acumen, particularly in real estate, underscore the materialistic values that drive him. The song also touches on the manipulation of public opinion and the exploitation of the masses, as the protagonist claims to feed the public 'our filth better than jam to pigs.' This imagery vividly portrays the degradation of cultural and intellectual standards in the pursuit of mass appeal and profit.

The chorus, with its repeated question 'Who wants me and the crumbs of my brain?' and the declaration 'I am a man in a hurry,' encapsulates the central theme of the song. It reflects the protagonist's awareness of his own superficiality and the hollow nature of his achievements. The song's conclusion, with references to love in different languages and regions, contrasts sharply with the protagonist's earlier declarations, suggesting a longing for genuine human connection and values that transcend material wealth and media influence. Noir Désir uses this character to critique the broader societal trends of prioritizing wealth, media influence, and superficial success over deeper, more meaningful human experiences and connections.