Tout doucement
Feist
The Art of Living Gently: Feist's 'Tout doucement'
Feist's song 'Tout doucement' is a gentle reminder to take life at a slower pace. The repetitive lyrics 'Tout doux, tout doux, tout doucement' translate to 'Very gently, very gently, very gently,' emphasizing the importance of moving through life with care and mindfulness. The song suggests that by taking things slowly, one can better understand and appreciate life. This message is encapsulated in the lines 'La vie c'est épatant' and 'La vie je la comprends,' which mean 'Life is amazing' and 'I understand life,' respectively.
The song also warns against the dangers of rushing through life. Feist advises against going 'trop vite' or 'too fast,' and cautions to be wary of 'dynamite' and 'volcans,' metaphors for sudden, explosive events or emotions that can disrupt one's peace. The lyrics also mention 'jeunes énervés,' or 'young people who are agitated,' who haven't yet learned the value of taking things slowly. This serves as a gentle critique of a fast-paced, often chaotic modern lifestyle.
In the latter part of the song, Feist connects this slow, gentle approach to love and success. She suggests that by loving 'simplement' or 'simply' and being 'très très prudent' or 'very, very careful,' love will naturally come to you, 'se blottir dans vos bras,' meaning 'to snuggle in your arms.' The song concludes with a serene image of 'flânant gentiment' or 'strolling gently,' reinforcing the idea that a slow, mindful approach to life and love leads to true contentment and understanding.