L'Amant De Secours
Georges Moustaki Lyrics

The song "L'Amant De Secours" by Georges Moustaki describes a certain type of lover, referred to as an "amant de secours" or "emergency lover." This lover is portrayed as someone who is readily available to provide comfort and companionship to those in need of love. However, this lover is also depicted as being temporary and easily forgotten, like a lover made of paper that can be quickly discarded.

The lyrics suggest that this lover is not committed or reliable, as they are merely passing through and do not make much of an impact. They are referred to as an "amant de fortune," implying that they are only there for convenience or pleasure, never promising anything more. This lover does not offer grand gestures or promises, never aiming to fulfill any lofty dreams or expectations.

The chorus repeats the phrase "He's mad and bad and dangerous to know," which can be interpreted as a warning about the nature of this lover. The repetition emphasizes that they are not to be taken lightly and might bring trouble or chaos into the lives of those who become involved with them. The phrase highlights the unpredictability and potentially harmful consequences of engaging with this type of lover.

The second stanza adds another layer to the portrayal of this lover. He is described as "an amant de velours" or a lover made of velvet, seemingly offering warmth and comfort for those who are physically or emotionally cold. However, like the paper lover, this lover is also transient and easily discarded. They are likened to a passing cloud, disappearing as quickly as they arrived. The phrase "offert à toutes et chacune" suggests that this lover is available to anyone and everyone, implying a lack of exclusivity or sincere connection.

In the final stanza, the lyrics continue to reinforce the qualities of this lover. Like the previous stanzas, he is referred to as an "amant de secours" or an emergency lover, suggesting that he is a quick fix for those in desperate need of love. However, this lover is portrayed as easily tired, categorized, and prone to drifting away. He is sometimes described as a thief, and always flighty or fickle. The phrase "sans illusion et sans rancune" indicates that this lover does not hold on to illusions or grudges, further emphasizing their ephemeral and uncommitted nature.

Overall, "L'Amant De Secours" paints a picture of a lover who provides temporary comfort but lacks depth, permanence, and genuine emotional connection. The repetition of "He's mad and bad and dangerous to know" serves as a cautionary message to beware of this type of lover, emphasizing the potential negative consequences of getting involved with someone who is not reliable or true.