Double Enfance

Julien Clerc's song "Double Enfance" delves into the complexities and emotional nuances of growing up in a divided family. The lyrics poignantly reflect on the experience of having separated parents, a reality that many children face. The opening lines, "Elle n'est pas donnée à tout le monde / La chance de s'aimer pour la vie," set the tone by acknowledging that not everyone is fortunate enough to experience lifelong love. This sentiment is juxtaposed with the recurring theme of time, as seen in the lines "10 ans 10 mois 10 secondes," emphasizing the fleeting and often fragmented nature of childhood memories.

The song uses metaphors like "plonger dans les eaux troubles / De mes souvenirs lointains" to describe the murky and sometimes confusing recollections of a childhood split between two homes. The phrase "double vie double silence / double sens et double jeu" captures the duality and often conflicting emotions that come with navigating two different family environments. This duality is further explored through the imagery of traveling and moving, symbolizing the constant shifts and adjustments a child must make.

Clerc also touches on the bittersweet aspects of having "deux maisons, deux quartiers / deux gâteaux d'anniversaire." While there are advantages, such as multiple celebrations, the underlying sorrow of separation and the enduring pain of a breakup are ever-present. The song concludes with a reflection on the passage of time and the rare gift of lifelong love, encapsulating the emotional journey of a child growing up in a divided family. Through its evocative lyrics and heartfelt delivery, "Double Enfance" offers a deeply personal yet universally relatable exploration of love, loss, and the enduring impact of childhood experiences.