Il Est Cinq Heures, Paris S'eveille

Jacques Dutronc's song "Il Est Cinq Heures, Paris S'eveille" is a poetic and vivid portrayal of Paris waking up at dawn. The lyrics paint a picture of the city transitioning from the quiet of the night to the bustling activity of the early morning. Dutronc uses a series of snapshots to capture different aspects of Parisian life, from the milk trucks and street sweepers to the lovers and workers starting their day. The repetition of the phrase "Il est cinq heures, Paris s'éveille" (It's five o'clock, Paris awakens) serves as a refrain that ties these images together, emphasizing the city's gradual awakening.

The song is rich with metaphors and cultural references. For instance, the line "Je suis le dauphin de la place Dauphine" (I am the dolphin of Dauphine Square) could be interpreted as a playful nod to the artist's own presence in the city. The mention of iconic Parisian landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Obelisk adds a layer of familiarity and nostalgia for listeners. These landmarks are personified, with the Eiffel Tower feeling cold and the Arc de Triomphe being revived, which adds a whimsical touch to the narrative.

Dutronc also touches on the more mundane and sometimes harsh realities of life in Paris. The workers are described as depressed, and the people waking up are oppressed, hinting at the socio-economic struggles that exist beneath the city's romantic facade. The song ends on a personal note, with the artist stating that while Paris is waking up, he is going to bed, suggesting a life lived on the fringes of conventional society. This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between the city's vibrant exterior and the individual experiences of its inhabitants.