C'est extra

Léo Ferré's song 'C'est extra' is a poetic and evocative piece that captures the essence of nocturnal allure and the intoxicating blend of music, emotion, and sensuality. The lyrics paint vivid images of a night filled with jazz, blues, and the mysterious presence of a woman who moves like a sailor on a swaying ship. The recurring phrase 'C'est extra' emphasizes the extraordinary nature of these moments, highlighting their beauty and intensity.

The song opens with the image of a woman in a leather dress, described as having an effortless charm. This woman, who sways like a sailor, embodies the spirit of the night, moving to the rhythm of an English tune. The reference to 'moody blues' and 'jazz' sets the musical backdrop, creating a sense of melancholy and passion. Ferré's use of metaphors, such as 'hands playing the rainbow on the guitar of life,' adds a layer of surrealism, suggesting that life itself is a musical performance filled with highs and lows.

Ferré's lyrics also explore themes of desire and longing. The imagery of 'hair falling like the evening' and 'music at the base of the spine' evokes a deep, almost physical connection to the night and its sounds. The song's sensuality is further emphasized by the description of 'hands playing the rainbow' and 'cries rising to the sky like a shining cigarette.' These lines suggest a transcendental experience, where music and emotion intertwine to create something extraordinary.

'C'est extra' is a celebration of the night and its many facets. It captures the fleeting beauty of moments that are both melancholic and exhilarating. Ferré's masterful use of language and imagery invites listeners to lose themselves in the music and the night, experiencing the extraordinary in the ordinary. The song is a testament to the power of art to transform everyday experiences into something magical.