Le roi Renaud (Complainte du...)

Édith Piaf's rendition of 'Le roi Renaud (Complainte du...)' is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that delves into themes of war, loss, and the deep sorrow that follows. The song tells the story of King Renaud, who returns from war mortally wounded, holding his entrails in his hands. His mother, upon seeing him, tries to bring him joy by announcing the birth of his son, but Renaud, aware of his impending death, cannot find happiness in this news. He requests his mother to prepare a bed for him, knowing he will not survive the night.

The narrative then shifts to the next morning, where the household is engulfed in grief. The servants and valets are weeping, and Renaud's wife, unaware of her husband's fate, questions her mother-in-law about the cause of their sorrow. The mother-in-law tries to shield her from the truth by giving various excuses, such as the drowning of a horse or the loss of a shroud. However, the truth becomes unavoidable when the wife notices the fresh earth in the church, indicating a recent burial. It is then revealed that King Renaud has died and been buried.

The song reaches its emotional peak as Renaud's wife, overwhelmed by grief, wishes to join her husband in death. She hands over her treasures and asks the earth to open up and swallow her, which it does, reuniting her with Renaud. This ballad is a poignant exploration of the devastating impact of war on families and the enduring pain of loss. Piaf's emotive delivery adds depth to the sorrowful tale, making it a powerful piece that resonates with listeners on a profound level.