Valentine
Maurice Chevalier
Nostalgia and Change: The Tale of Valentine
Maurice Chevalier's song "Valentine" is a nostalgic and humorous reflection on a past romantic relationship. The lyrics recount the singer's memories of his first love, Valentine, whom he met on a rainy day. The song is filled with vivid descriptions of Valentine's physical attributes, such as her small feet, small breasts, and small chin, which the singer fondly remembers. These details are repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the singer's infatuation with her physical appearance and the simplicity of young love.
The song also touches on the nature of youthful relationships, highlighting that intelligence and character were not as important to the singer at the time as physical attraction and affection. The lyrics suggest that when one is young, the excitement and passion of love are enough to make one happy, regardless of other qualities. This reflects a common theme in many love songs, where the intensity of young love overshadows more practical considerations.
In the final verse, the song takes a humorous turn as the singer encounters Valentine years later. She has changed significantly, now described as a large woman with big feet and multiple chins. This transformation is met with shock and disbelief by the singer, who nostalgically recalls her former petite and delicate appearance. The contrast between the past and present Valentine serves as a commentary on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. The song's playful tone and catchy melody make it a charming and memorable piece that captures the bittersweet nature of reminiscing about past loves.