Allons-y, Chochotte

Erik Satie's song 'Allons-y, Chochotte' is a whimsical and humorous narrative that explores themes of love, marriage, and the quirks of life. The lyrics tell the story of a man who falls in love with a woman named Chochotte and quickly decides he wants to marry her. The playful tone is set from the beginning, as the man asks Chochotte if she is a 'mascotte,' to which she responds affirmatively. This sets the stage for a lighthearted and somewhat absurd journey through their relationship.

The song continues with the couple's wedding night, where the man eagerly anticipates consummating their marriage. However, Chochotte humorously instructs him not to tickle her under the arm, adding a touch of innocence and playfulness to the scene. The narrative then shifts to an unexpected serenade from their friends, who celebrate the couple's union with makeshift instruments, further emphasizing the song's whimsical nature.

As the story progresses, Chochotte expresses her desire for a son who will surpass the musical talents of Mozart and Meyerbeer. This leads to a humorous moment where the man is instructed to buy a phonograph to aid in their son's musical education. The song concludes with the birth of their son, who, in a final twist, has the refrain 'Allons-y, Chochotte' inscribed on his navel. This ending encapsulates the song's playful and surreal tone, leaving listeners with a sense of amusement and delight.

Satie's 'Allons-y, Chochotte' is a charming and eccentric piece that captures the joy and absurdity of love and life. Its playful lyrics and whimsical narrative invite listeners to embrace the humor and unpredictability of relationships, making it a delightful addition to Satie's repertoire.