City Lights begins with the scene (shown with a quick subtitle) "Peace and Prosperity" to introduce the character of the Tramp, satirically mock the proceedings of a public presentation, and more subtly, to make a statement against talking films. An ugly monument is unveiled before a dignified, civic group. A typical, boring speech is presented by the mayor. Chaplin uses instruments to parody the voices and make fun of talking films and the characters. Imitating the monotone intonation of the mayor's speech is a series of unintelligible squawks and squeaks. A female civic leader is next in line to speak, also represented by a similar garble and squawking, with a higher feminine register. When the sheet is lifted, the Tramp in tattered attire is revealed, sleeping peacefully in the central figure's lap. The crowd is appalled.

The Tramp slowly awakens and once he realizes...