Voilà

Jeanne Cherhal's song 'Voilà' delves into the complexities of self-identity and the internal struggles that come with it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their past and the persistent memories that refuse to fade away. The opening lines, 'C'est une histoire ancienne et pourtant c'est dans ma tête,' suggest that despite the passage of time, certain memories remain deeply ingrained in the mind. This sets the stage for a narrative about the difficulty of moving on from past experiences and the impact they have on one's present self.

The refrain, 'Voilà, voilà, voilà, voilà,' repeated multiple times, emphasizes a sense of resignation and acceptance of one's circumstances. The line 'Si seulement dans ce qu'on est on pouvait faire un choix' reflects a longing for the ability to choose one's identity and path in life, but the subsequent 'On peut pas' underscores the inevitability and lack of control over certain aspects of existence. This theme is further explored in the verses, where Cherhal describes her preference for solitude and the protective 'carapace' she retreats into, highlighting a struggle between the desire for isolation and the need for connection.

In the latter part of the song, Cherhal expresses a desire to take control of her life and make decisions independently, as seen in the lines 'Ca y est, c'est décidé, je vais tout décider.' However, this resolve is tempered by a sense of self-doubt and the realization that she often fails to listen to her own needs. The poignant admission, 'Si j'avais pu choisir entre moi et autre chose... j'aurais pris autre chose,' reveals a deep-seated dissatisfaction with oneself. Ultimately, 'Voilà' is a candid exploration of the internal conflicts that shape our identities and the ongoing journey towards self-acceptance.