Interviews de rue à Paris

After Victoire leaves, Nicolas keeps walking a little farther. The camera follows him. He goes past bicycles, shop windows, and a small fruit stand. A man is standing outside a café near Gare du Nord. He has a backpack on one shoulder and a bottle of water in his hand. He looks busy, but friendly. Nicolas stops by him, says hello, and asks if he has a minute for a short interview.

“Hello sir. My name is Nicolas, and I work for Paris Infos. Today, we’re asking simple questions about everyday life. Could you tell us your name, your age, and how you are today?”

“My name is François. I am fifty-two years old, and I live in Rotterdam. I am in Paris for two days for work. I work in a bookshop near the station in Rotterdam, so I see many people every day. Today, I am a little stressed because there is a lot of work at the moment, and I still have many things to do. But I am also happy because I like my job. After my day, I want to go back to the hotel, make some tea, and read for half an hour.”

“A bookshop, that’s very interesting. Do you like talking about books with customers? And when you are not working, which books do you like to read? Do you prefer quiet evenings at home, or do you sometimes go out with friends?”

Yes, I really like my work. Some clients already know what they want. Others ask me for help, and I like that. I often read history books and simple detective stories. In the evening, I often stay at home because I am tired. But sometimes, on Saturdays, I meet up with friends for a coffee in the center of Rotterdam.”

Thank you, François. You seem very kind and very calm, even during a busy day. I hope the work will be easier this afternoon, and that you are going to really enjoy your tea and your book later.”

The afternoon is warmer. The streets are even fuller. A few minutes later, Nicolas sees a woman near a bookshop in a quiet little street. She has a blue bag, a green jacket, and a big smile. She waits in front of the shop and watches the people walking by. Nicolas comes closer and introduces himself once again.