Les Croix

Édith Piaf's song "Les Croix" is a poignant exploration of suffering, symbolized by the cross, a powerful and multifaceted metaphor. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of various crosses found on Earth, from wooden and iron crosses to small silver ones worn around the neck. These crosses represent different burdens and forms of suffering that people carry throughout their lives. Piaf's use of the cross as a symbol is deeply rooted in Christian imagery, where the cross is a sign of both suffering and redemption.

In the song, Piaf speaks of her own personal cross, which she describes as an immense cross of lead, vast like love itself. This cross is not a physical object but a mental and emotional burden that she carries in her mind. She describes how this cross affects her life, capturing the wind, holding back the storm, prolonging the evening, and hiding the day. This imagery suggests that her suffering is all-encompassing, affecting every aspect of her existence. The cross in her mind is engraved with a word that resembles suffering, a familiar yet heavy burden that she feels might lead to her demise.

Piaf also reflects on the crosses found along deep roads, silent crosses that watch over the world. These crosses symbolize forgiveness, madness, and deliverance, highlighting the different ways people cope with their suffering. The song's repetition of the phrase "pauvre de moi" (poor me) emphasizes the personal and universal nature of suffering. Piaf's powerful voice and emotive delivery bring the lyrics to life, making "Les Croix" a deeply moving and introspective piece that resonates with listeners on a profound level.