On a Changé
Les Deesses
The Passage of Time and Lost Connections in 'On a Changé'
Les Deesses' song 'On a Changé' poignantly explores the themes of change, growth, and the bittersweet nature of lost connections over time. The lyrics tell the story of two childhood friends who were once inseparable but were forced apart when one of them moved to Paris. The repeated refrain, 'Toutes ces années tu m'as manqué, On a changé, On a grandi, Trop loin tous les deux,' underscores the emotional distance and transformation that time and physical separation have wrought on their relationship.
The narrative begins with a nostalgic recollection of their childhood, where they were neighbors and close companions. The sudden move to Paris, as described by the line 'On part a Paris, on part loin d'ici,' marks a significant turning point. The protagonist's initial sadness and sense of loss are palpable, but as they adapt to their new life, making new friends and embracing new experiences, the pain of separation begins to fade. This transition is captured in the lines 'Je grandis, on oublie, on hérite, C'est une nouvelle vie qui me sourit,' reflecting the inevitability of change and the resilience of the human spirit.
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that despite the passage of ten years, the protagonist still holds a deep affection for their childhood friend. The anticipation and uncertainty of returning to their homeland to reconnect with this person are expressed in the lines 'Il est temps de revenir au pays, Voir l'homme de mes souvenirs au pays.' This return is not just a physical journey but an emotional one, filled with hope and the fear of being forgotten. The song beautifully captures the complexity of human emotions tied to time, change, and the enduring nature of first loves and childhood memories.