Il était un petit homme, pirouette

“Il était un petit homme, pirouette” by Chansons Enfantines is a charming and whimsical French children's song that tells the story of a little man with an unusual house. The lyrics are playful and imaginative, capturing the essence of childhood wonder and creativity. The song begins by introducing a small man who lives in a peculiar house made of cardboard, with stairs made of paper. This imagery sets the stage for a fantastical tale where the ordinary rules of the world do not apply.

As the story unfolds, the song describes the humorous consequences of climbing the fragile stairs. The postman, who attempts to ascend them, ends up breaking the tip of his nose. This incident is resolved in a lighthearted manner, with the nose being mended using golden thread. However, the thread breaks, and the nose flies away, only to be caught by a jet plane. This sequence of events is both absurd and delightful, reflecting the playful nature of children's imaginations.

The song concludes with a call for applause, signaling the end of the story. The repetitive and rhythmic structure of the lyrics, along with the use of onomatopoeic words like “pirouette” and “cacahouète,” adds to the song's charm and makes it easy for children to sing along. Chansons Enfantines, known for their collection of traditional French children's songs, have created a timeless piece that continues to entertain and amuse young audiences. The song's whimsical narrative and playful language celebrate the joy and innocence of childhood, making it a beloved classic in French culture.