Ballade

Jacques Brel's song 'Ballade' is a poetic exploration of simple yet profound desires for a better world. Through a series of vivid and whimsical images, Brel expresses a longing for beauty, kindness, and freedom. The song opens with the wish for a beautiful boat to enjoy leisurely activities, symbolizing a desire for simplicity and joy in life. This is followed by a wish for a pretty carriage to splash water on dancing girls, a playful image that evokes a sense of carefree fun and innocence.

Brel's wishes extend beyond personal enjoyment to societal kindness and compassion. He imagines a world where people are polite and considerate, even in mundane settings like tramways. This reflects a yearning for a more courteous and respectful society. The desire for homeless people to sing songs of freedom early in the morning and late at night highlights Brel's empathy for the marginalized and his hope for their liberation and joy.

The song also touches on the warmth and comfort of home, with the wish for houses to smell of bread, beer, and ham, evoking a sense of homeliness and well-being. Brel's longing for a beautiful airplane to see God suggests a spiritual quest for higher understanding and connection. Finally, he wishes for children to be kind and their laughter to refresh humanity, symbolizing hope for future generations to bring about a more compassionate and joyful world. Through 'Ballade,' Brel paints a picture of an ideal world filled with beauty, kindness, and freedom, inviting listeners to share in his dreams and aspirations.