On Ira

Jean-Jacques Goldman's song 'On Ira' is a poetic exploration of freedom, escape, and the human desire to break free from societal constraints. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nocturnal departure, a time when doubts and uncertainties loom large. The journey described is not just a physical one but also a metaphorical escape from the mundane and the oppressive structures of daily life. Goldman speaks to the universal longing to leave behind the 'prisons' of keys, cards, and codes, which symbolize the routines and responsibilities that bind us.

The recurring phrase 'On ira' (We will go) serves as a mantra of liberation and adventure. The song emphasizes the beauty of the journey itself rather than the destination, suggesting that the act of moving forward, of seeking new experiences, is what truly matters. The lyrics also touch on existential themes, such as the inevitability of death and the importance of living authentically. Goldman contrasts the passive existence of those who live as if they are unaware of their mortality with the proactive choice to seek out new horizons and embrace life's uncertainties.

Goldman’s use of imagery, such as following stars and gold seekers, evokes a sense of timeless adventure and the pursuit of dreams. The song acknowledges the inevitability of challenges and the shadows of the past ('l'ombre de nous rattrapera peut-être pas'), but it remains hopeful and defiant. The repeated assurance that 'les routes qui sont belles' (the roads are beautiful) reinforces the idea that the journey itself is a source of beauty and fulfillment. 'On Ira' is a call to embrace the unknown, to live fully, and to find beauty in the act of moving forward, regardless of the destination.