Les biches

Jacques Brel's song 'Les biches' is a poetic exploration of the complex and often contradictory relationships between men and women, using the metaphor of 'biches' (does) to represent women at different stages of life. The song is divided into several stanzas, each focusing on a different age group, from fifteen to beyond twenty years old, and finally to women who have aged. Brel's lyrics are rich with imagery and metaphors, painting a vivid picture of the evolving dynamics of attraction, power, and vulnerability.

In the first stanza, Brel describes young women as 'our first enemy,' highlighting the innocence and playful deceit of youth. These 'biches' are depicted as elusive and enchanting, capable of turning storms into poets. The use of nature imagery, such as 'pastures of boredom' and 'blue asphalt of Paris,' contrasts the innocence of youth with the complexities of urban life. The young women are both hunted and hunters, embodying a duality that makes them both alluring and dangerous.

As the song progresses, Brel delves into the lives of women in their twenties, who are described as 'our most beautiful enemy.' These women are more aware of their allure and power, using their beauty and charm to navigate the world. The lyrics suggest a deeper level of deceit, as these 'biches' manipulate relationships and societal expectations. The metaphor of 'grazing on husbands or diamonds' underscores the transactional nature of some relationships, where love and materialism intertwine.

In the final stanzas, Brel addresses women who have aged, referring to them as 'our last enemy.' These women, who have 'watched too many nights,' are portrayed with a sense of resignation and wisdom. Their beauty has faded, but their past experiences and memories become their new tools of deception. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the inevitable changes it brings, both to individuals and their relationships. Brel's 'Les biches' is a masterful commentary on the complexities of love, desire, and the human condition, wrapped in the guise of a simple metaphor.