17 Ans

Georges Moustaki's song "17 Ans" is a poetic exploration of the delicate and transformative age of seventeen. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young woman on the cusp of adulthood, experiencing the world with a mix of innocence and burgeoning awareness. The song captures the essence of this age, where one is no longer a child but not yet fully an adult, navigating the complexities of self-discovery and the awakening of desires.

The imagery in the song is rich and evocative, with references to the sun and night symbolizing the duality of enlightenment and liberation. The young woman's body is described as being intoxicated by the sun and freed by the night, suggesting a newfound sense of freedom and self-awareness. The lyrics also highlight the contrast between her innocent smile and docile gaze with her insatiable hunger and thirst for life, encapsulating the intense emotions and desires that characterize this stage of life.

Moustaki's portrayal of seventeen is not just about physical changes but also about the emotional and psychological journey. The song speaks to the rebellious spirit of youth, the refusal to conform to an organized world, and the desire to live in the present moment. The repeated references to discovering the body and the comparison to a "fruit éclaté" (burst fruit) and a "cri révolté" (revolted cry) emphasize the raw, unfiltered experiences of adolescence. Through this song, Moustaki captures the essence of youth as a time of exploration, rebellion, and the intense pursuit of identity and meaning.