Les cornichons

Nino Ferrer's 'Les cornichons' is a playful and light-hearted song that tells the story of a family's attempt to enjoy a picnic. The lyrics describe the preparation and excitement for a day out in nature, with a detailed list of food items that were packed for the occasion. The repetition of 'Des cornichons' (pickles) throughout the song emphasizes the meticulous planning that went into the picnic basket, highlighting the mundane yet relatable task of preparing for a family outing.

However, the song takes a comedic turn when the family arrives at their destination only to be met with rain. The one thing they forgot to bring were umbrellas, which leads to the picnic being canceled. The family returns home, and the song ends with them eating their picnic food indoors. This twist adds a layer of irony to the song, as all the effort put into the preparation was for naught due to an unforeseen circumstance. The song captures the essence of life's little disappointments and the humor that can be found in them.

Nino Ferrer, known for his humor and irony in music, often incorporated everyday life and its absurdities into his songs. 'Les cornichons' is a reflection of this style, using a simple narrative of a picnic to comment on the unpredictability of life and the importance of being able to laugh at oneself. The song's catchy melody and Ferrer's playful delivery make it an enduring favorite, encapsulating a moment of shared human experience with a touch of whimsy.