C'est en septembre

Gilbert Bécaud's song 'C'est en septembre' is a poignant ode to the month of September, capturing the essence of a quieter, more authentic time in his homeland. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the transition from the bustling, tourist-filled summer to the serene, reflective autumn. Bécaud uses rich imagery to describe how the landscape and atmosphere change as the season shifts. The olive trees lowering their branches, the grapes blushing, and the sand turning cold all signify the end of summer's vibrant chaos and the beginning of a more tranquil period.

The song contrasts the superficiality of the summer months with the genuine, heartfelt experiences of September. During the summer, the country is overrun with tourists, caravans, and the paraphernalia of vacation life, which Bécaud describes as a 'great fair of illusions.' The exaggerated descriptions of too-short swimsuits and too-long shorts, along with the mention of Dutch tourists and their melons, add a touch of humor and critique to the summer's artificiality. In contrast, September is depicted as a time when the country can 'breathe' and return to its true self, free from the distractions of the tourist season.

September holds a special place in Bécaud's heart, symbolizing a return to roots and a reconnection with his past. The lyrics mention his childhood, his father's grave, and his school, all bathed in the warm light of the sun. This month represents a homecoming, a time when Bécaud can truly live and find peace. The imagery of the beach, untouched and welcoming like a fiancée, and the olive tree under which he sleeps, encapsulates the deep sense of belonging and contentment that September brings. Through 'C'est en septembre,' Bécaud beautifully captures the bittersweet nostalgia and the profound sense of identity tied to this time of year.