Rue de L'abricot
France Gall
A Melancholic Love in the Garden of Rue de L'abricot
France Gall's song "Rue de L'abricot" paints a vivid picture of a melancholic love story set against the backdrop of a bustling city. The lyrics introduce us to a 'poor sad boy,' a character who feels trapped and suffocated by the urban environment. This boy is likened to a 'sterile fig tree,' symbolizing his sense of emptiness and lack of fulfillment. The city, with its noise and monotony, has drained him of joy and vitality. His longing and desire are palpable as he gazes at the object of his affection, a person who seems to embody everything he lacks—freshness, warmth, and life.
The object of his affection is described with rich, fruity metaphors: a 'peach complexion,' 'cherry lips,' and a 'grape taste.' These descriptions evoke a sense of natural beauty and sweetness, contrasting sharply with the boy's sterile, urban existence. The person he admires lives in a garden at '3 Rue de l’abricot,' a place that symbolizes a haven of natural beauty and tranquility amidst the chaos of the city. This garden represents everything the boy yearns for—a place where love can flourish and where he can escape the dreariness of his current life.
The song's chorus reinforces this contrast, highlighting the boy's admiration and longing for the person who lives in this idyllic garden. The repeated mention of 'Rue de l’abricot' serves as a reminder of the boy's dream of a better, more fulfilling life. The song ends on a hopeful note, with the boy expressing his desire to remain in this garden of love, suggesting that their love will blossom and thrive in this beautiful, serene setting. France Gall's evocative lyrics and the use of vivid, natural imagery create a poignant narrative of love, longing, and the search for happiness in an often harsh and unyielding world.