The lyrics of "Les voisins" describe the neighbors as "always watching, always listening," and always eager to gossip about the "little things" they observe. The song playfully portrays how neighbors find amusement and entertainment in the flaws and shortcomings of others, commenting on their appearance, their relationships, and their daily routines.
Offenbach's music adds to the lighthearted and humorous nature of the song. It's a lively, fast-paced melody with a catchy tune and a repetitive refrain that emphasizes the chorus's message:
_"Ils observent tout / Ils écoutent tout / Ils racontent tout / Les voisins._"
("They observe everything / They listen to everything / They tell everything / The neighbors.")
The song depicts neighbors as a collective force that engages in constant surveillance, keeping a watchful eye on everything that happens in their surroundings. They are seen as both nosy and judgemental, eager to spread stories and rumors without much regard for the truth.
Ultimately, "Les voisins" is a humorous critique of human behavior and the tendency to find entertainment in the misfortunes of others. It encourages listeners to take a lighthearted approach to the quirks and eccentricities of their neighbors and find humor in the often-ridiculous ways in which people observe and judge each other.