Quand J'Aime Une Fois J'Aime Pour Toujours

Francis Cabrel's song "Quand J'Aime Une Fois J'Aime Pour Toujours" is a heartfelt declaration of unwavering love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is both intense and enduring. Cabrel begins by describing a moment of rejection, where he marks the boundary of his beloved's space and retreats, feeling that it is not his day. This initial setback, however, does not deter him. Instead, he takes up his harmonica and sings under the lilac tree, expressing his steadfast love with the refrain, "Quand j'aime une fois, j'aime pour toujours" (When I love once, I love forever).

The song delves into the nature of love as a challenging endeavor, likening it to a tournament where warriors fall, overwhelmed by their own bravery. Cabrel warns his beloved that if she views love as a conquest, she may find herself prey to her own predatory instincts. He questions her isolation, urging her to break free from the constraints that govern her affections. His love is portrayed as a force that defies rules and conventions, driven by a deep, unshakeable commitment.

In the latter part of the song, Cabrel's determination becomes even more palpable. He envisions himself advancing towards his beloved with the persistence of a bear with velvet paws, a metaphor that conveys both strength and gentleness. He longs to touch the "skin of her drum," a poetic way of expressing his desire to connect with her on a profound level. The repeated refrain underscores the central theme of the song: a love that, once kindled, burns eternally. Cabrel's lyrics, rich with imagery and emotion, capture the essence of a love that is both passionate and enduring, a testament to the power of unwavering devotion.