Quant Je Suis Mis Au Retour
Faun
A Medieval Ode to Unwavering Love
Faun's song "Quant Je Suis Mis Au Retour" is a beautiful homage to the timeless theme of love, expressed through the lens of medieval poetry. The lyrics, sung in Old French, evoke a deep sense of longing and devotion. The narrator speaks of the emotional turmoil and pain he endures when he is away from his beloved, yet he finds solace in the righteousness of his love. The phrase "Diex! C'est drois que je l'aim, sans blame" (God! It is right that I love her, without blame) underscores the purity and loyalty of his feelings, suggesting that his love is both justified and honorable.
The song's imagery is rich with references to beauty and sweetness, which are common motifs in medieval courtly love poetry. The beloved's beauty and gentle nature ignite a passionate flame within the narrator, a fire that burns both day and night. This continuous remembrance and the intensity of his emotions highlight the enduring and consuming nature of true love. The use of fire as a metaphor for love is particularly poignant, symbolizing both the warmth and the potential for pain that comes with deep affection.
Faun, known for their fusion of medieval, pagan, and folk music, brings an authentic and immersive experience to this piece. Their musical style, characterized by the use of traditional instruments and ancient languages, enhances the historical and emotional depth of the lyrics. By reviving such ancient texts, Faun not only preserves cultural heritage but also connects modern listeners to the universal and timeless experience of love.