When truth is no longer free, freedom is no longer real: the truths of the police are the truths of today.

In this quote, Jacques Prevert asserts that truth is foundational to freedom. He suggests that when truth is suppressed or controlled, true freedom ceases to exist. Prevert connects the idea of truth being constrained to the power structures in society, specifically referencing the police and how their version of truth can shape or limit the freedoms of individuals. His words imply that when the authorities control or manipulate the narrative of what is considered truth, the freedom of the people is at risk.

Prevert’s statement about the truths of the police points to the idea that the authorities often determine what is acceptable or "true" in society. This can be problematic, as it suggests that official narratives may be shaped by those in power, leaving little room for alternative perspectives or for the freedom of expression to flourish. By implying that the police have control over the truths of the day, Prevert highlights the potential danger of unchecked authority and the erosion of democratic freedoms.

The quote also reflects the broader theme of censorship and oppression. When the government or other authoritative bodies manipulate or control what can be said, heard, or believed, individuals lose their ability to engage with the world based on their own experiences and understanding. Prevert’s warning is that without an open and free exchange of ideas, a society's freedom becomes hollow and superficial, as it is no longer built on the authentic expression of its citizens.

The origin of this quote comes from Jacques Prevert, a French poet and screenwriter known for his involvement in the artistic and political movements of his time. His work often dealt with themes of freedom, social justice, and the human spirit. This particular quote reflects his concern about the dangers of authoritarianism and the suppression of truth, a theme that runs through much of his writing, where he often challenged societal norms and questioned the status quo.