Le testament

Georges Brassens' song 'Le testament' is a poignant and reflective piece that delves into themes of mortality, love, and legacy. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of melancholy and acceptance as Brassens contemplates his own death. The opening lines set the tone, with the artist expressing sadness at the thought of leaving this world when God calls him. This sets up a narrative where Brassens imagines his final journey, pondering whether the tree for his coffin is still standing and expressing a desire to take the longest route to the cemetery, savoring his last moments on earth.

Brassens' use of metaphors and imagery is striking throughout the song. He speaks of wanting to leave life 'à reculons' (backwards), indicating a reluctance to depart and a desire to hold on to the joys of life for as long as possible. The mention of 'effeuillant le chrysanthème' (plucking the chrysanthemum) is particularly evocative, as chrysanthemums are associated with death in many cultures, yet he treats it like a daisy, a flower of love and innocence. This juxtaposition highlights his wish to experience love one last time before he goes.

The song also touches on the idea of legacy and how he wishes to be remembered. Brassens hopes that his widow will mourn him genuinely, without the need for artificial tears. He humorously suggests that his successor can use his belongings but must never harm his beloved cats, or else face his ghostly wrath. This blend of humor and solemnity is characteristic of Brassens' style, making 'Le testament' a deeply personal and relatable reflection on life and death. The final lines, where he speaks of lying in the 'fosse commune du temps' (the common grave of time), encapsulate the inevitability of death and the passage of time, leaving listeners with a profound sense of the transient nature of existence.