You've Got To Learn

Charles Aznavour's song 'You've Got To Learn' is a poignant exploration of resilience and emotional fortitude in the face of life's inevitable hardships. The lyrics convey a message of maintaining composure and dignity even when one is suffering internally. Aznavour, known for his deeply emotional and often melancholic songs, uses this piece to delve into the complexities of human emotions, particularly the struggle to mask pain and sorrow.

The song emphasizes the importance of not showing vulnerability, suggesting that one must 'show a happy face' despite feeling miserable. This reflects a societal expectation to maintain a facade of strength and happiness, even when one is internally distressed. The lyrics also touch on the necessity of swallowing one's pride and enduring humiliation, highlighting the harsh realities of life that often require a stoic demeanor.

Aznavour also addresses the theme of moving on from unreciprocated love. The line 'You've got to learn to leave the table when love's no longer being served' is a powerful metaphor for recognizing when a relationship has run its course and having the strength to walk away without causing a scene. This advice is both practical and emotionally challenging, underscoring the difficulty of letting go and the need for self-preservation.

The song ultimately serves as a guide for navigating emotional pain and heartbreak. It advises listeners to be strong, to let their heads rule their hearts, and to learn from their experiences. Aznavour's message is clear: life is full of challenges, but with resilience and inner strength, one can endure and continue to live, even with a broken heart.