J'ai Embrassé Un Flic Lyrics in English by Renaud
Flic is a French slang term for 'cop' or 'policeman'. It's a very common and informal word in spoken French, but its appearance in a song title and lyrics makes it particularly striking.
In the context of Renaud's song, "J'ai Embrassé Un Flic" (I Kissed a Cop), the word flic is central to the song's provocative and ironic message. Renaud, known for his anti-establishment views, uses this casual term to highlight a surprising act of reconciliation and solidarity, making the word choice both authentic and impactful.
Renaud's "J'ai Embrassé Un Flic" [I Kissed a Cop] is a really interesting song, especially coming from an artist known for his rebellious spirit! It talks about a huge demonstration, with "des millions" [millions] of people from all walks of life – "protestants et catholiques, musulmans, juifs et laïcs" [Protestants and Catholics, Muslims, Jews and secular people] – marching peacefully between République and Nation. What's surprising is that instead of the usual tension, Renaud describes a moment of unexpected solidarity.
He sees a cop who "avait l'air sympathique" [looked friendly], and in a truly uncharacteristic move for his "vie d'anarchiste" [anarchist life], he goes up and kisses him! He even says, "J'aurai pas cru y a trente ans / Qu'au lieu de leur balancer / Des pavés à tour de bras / J'en serrerais un contre moi" [I wouldn't have believed thirty years ago / That instead of throwing / Paving stones at them with all my might / I would hold one against me]. It's a powerful statement about finding common ground and humanity, even with those you might traditionally oppose, especially in a moment of shared purpose and peace.
