Interviews de rue à Paris

After Victoire leaves, Nicolas walks a little farther. The camera follows him. He goes past bicycles, shop windows, and a small fruit stand. A man is standing in front of a café near Gare du Nord. He has a backpack on his shoulder and a bottle of water in his hand. He seems busy, but kind. Nicolas stops in front of 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 ask simple questions about everyday life. Can 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 Paris. I work in a bookshop near Gare du Nord. I see many people there 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 home, 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, what 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 customers 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 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 will 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 small quiet street. She has a blue bag, a green jacket, and a big smile. She waits in front of the shop and looks at the passers-by. Nicolas comes closer and introduces himself once again.