Le Reste Du Temps

Francis Cabrel's song 'Le Reste Du Temps' is a poetic exploration of love and tranquility, set against the backdrop of nature. The lyrics invite the listener to imagine a serene escape, where two lovers find solace and simplicity under the trees. The imagery of sleeping under the trees and being shielded by branches from the harsh winds symbolizes a desire to retreat from the complexities and noise of the world. This setting is portrayed as more valuable than any material wealth, emphasizing the purity and depth of their connection.

The song contrasts the natural, unadorned beauty of their surroundings with the superficiality of societal expectations. Cabrel sings of 'palais de marbre' (marble palaces) and 'l'or des sultans' (the gold of sultans), suggesting that true contentment and love are found in the simplicity of nature rather than in opulence. The repeated imagery of 'jardins dérangés' (disturbed gardens) and 'fleurs allongées' (lying flowers) evokes a sense of peaceful disorder, where the lovers can be themselves without judgment or interruption.

Cabrel's gentle, melodic style enhances the song's themes of intimacy and escape. The lyrics reflect a longing to disconnect from the trivialities of the world ('Pendant que le monde bavarde / A rien d'important') and to focus on the enduring bond between the lovers. The song's refrain, with its emphasis on the lovers' bodies intertwined under the 'lumière orangée' (orange light), underscores the timeless and unspoken understanding between them. 'Le Reste Du Temps' is a celebration of love's ability to create a private sanctuary, away from the distractions and pressures of everyday life.