Putain putain

Arno's song "Putain putain" is a raw and candid exploration of identity, unity, and the socio-political landscape of Europe. The Belgian artist, known for his eclectic style and often provocative lyrics, uses this song to address the complexities and contradictions inherent in European identity. The repeated refrain, "Putain putain c'est vachement bien, nous sommes quand même tous des Européens," translates to "Damn, damn, it's really good, we are all Europeans after all," emphasizing a sense of shared identity despite differences.

The lyrics begin with a series of negations, where Arno declares what he is not: a communist, a cyclist, a Catholic, or a footballer. This can be seen as a rejection of labels and stereotypes, suggesting that identity is more complex than these simple categories. The line "J'aime les femmes, j'aime les garçons, et comme j'ai déjà dit, j'aime les zizis" ("I love women, I love boys, and as I've already said, I love dicks") further challenges conventional norms and celebrates sexual freedom and fluidity.

Arno also touches on social issues, such as the disparity between the rich and the poor and the superficiality of some people's conversations. The line "Il y a des gens qui parlent beaucoup mais ne disent rien du tout" ("There are people who talk a lot but say nothing at all") criticizes empty rhetoric, while "Il y a des gens qui crèvent de faim" ("There are people who are starving") highlights the ongoing issue of poverty. Despite these challenges, the song's chorus brings it back to a message of unity, suggesting that, regardless of these differences and difficulties, there is a common European identity that binds people together.

The use of multiple languages in the song—French, Dutch, and English—reflects the multicultural nature of Europe. This linguistic diversity underscores the song's message that unity can be found in diversity. Arno's gritty, unpolished vocal style and the song's straightforward, almost punk-like musical arrangement further enhance the raw, honest feel of the piece, making it a powerful anthem for a complex and multifaceted Europe.