Et Maintenant

The song "Et Maintenant" by Gilbert Becaud is a poignant reflection on the emptiness and uncertainty that follows the end of a significant relationship. The lyrics express the narrator's struggle to envision a future without their loved one, as they grapple with the profound sense of loss and directionlessness. The recurring question, "Et maintenant que vais-je faire" (And now what will I do), encapsulates the central theme of the song: the search for meaning and purpose in the wake of a personal upheaval.

The lyrics convey a deep sense of isolation and insignificance, as the world that once felt so full with the presence of the beloved now seems small and indifferent. The narrator's heart continues to beat, but without a clear reason or passion, emphasizing the hollowness felt inside. The mention of Paris, a city often associated with romance and life, feeling boring and lifeless, further illustrates the extent of the narrator's despair.

In an attempt to cope with the pain, the narrator considers laughing to avoid tears and spending sleepless nights in an effort to forget. However, the reflection in the mirror eventually reveals the inevitable acceptance of the end. The song closes with a resignation to the new reality, as the narrator acknowledges having nothing left to do, symbolizing the final stage of grief. The song's melancholic melody and Becaud's emotive delivery enhance the sense of sorrow and resignation that permeates the lyrics.