"There's always something fishy about the French"

Noel Coward's quote, "There's constantly something fishy about the French", shows a playful, albeit stereotyped, understanding of the French by the British. Being known for his wit and fondness for satire, Coward's declaration likely wasn't planned to be taken totally at stated value, but rather as an amusing observation formed by the historic rivalry and cultural differences between the 2 nations.

To "smell something fishy" normally implies suspicion or the sense that something is not quite right. In the context of Coward's remark, it recommends that the French, or possibly French customs and habits, are viewed as intriguing or unusual from a British perspective. Historically, the British and French have had a complex relationship, defined by periods of dispute, competitors, and camaraderie. This vibrant frequently causes the 2 nations playfully mocking or stereotyping each other. Coward, being a quintessentially British dramatist and songwriter, likely taken pleasure in playing on this cultural trope for comedic result.

Additionally, Coward's oeuvre often included themes of social observation and review, typically instilled with irony and humor. Thus, the quote could likewise be translated as not a genuinely crucial belief however rather a reflection of the stereotypes and cultural clichés common in his period. It is important to remember that Coward's works were carried out and produced in the early to mid-20th century, a time when national stereotypes were more frequently expressed without the modern bookings we might have today.

In addition, Coward's wit often included a layer of self-awareness, possibly poking fun at both British and French traits. By making such a blanket declaration about the French, he invites the audience to review the absurdity of such broad characterizations, encouraging laughter at the recklessness of cultural prejudices and cultivating a sense of shared humor across national lines.