Nous Sommes Deux

Georges Moustaki's song 'Nous Sommes Deux' is a poignant reflection on collective suffering and resilience. The lyrics convey a sense of unity among individuals who are enduring hardship together. The repetition of 'Nous sommes deux' (We are two) and 'Nous sommes trois' (We are three) emphasizes the shared experience of pain and struggle, suggesting that the suffering is not isolated but a collective burden. This communal aspect is further highlighted by the increasing numbers, culminating in 'mille vingt et trois' (one thousand twenty-three), symbolizing a large group bound by a common plight.

The song's imagery of time and elements like rain and blood adds depth to the narrative. The lines 'Avec le temps, avec la pluie, avec le sang qui l'a séché' (With time, with the rain, with the blood that has dried) evoke a sense of enduring pain that has been weathered over time. The mention of blood drying suggests wounds that have healed but left scars, indicating a history of suffering that continues to affect the present. The recurring theme of pain, 'la douleur qui vit en nous' (the pain that lives in us), underscores the persistent nature of their struggle.

Moustaki's use of repetition and simple yet powerful language creates a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of resilience. The song's structure, with its cyclical repetition, mirrors the ongoing nature of their struggle and the hope that their collective pain will eventually lead to a better future. The final lines, 'Notre douleur nous guidera' (Our pain will guide us), suggest that their shared suffering will ultimately lead them to a place of understanding and perhaps, liberation. This song is a testament to the strength found in unity and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.