La Voix Du Silence

Marie Laforêt's song 'La Voix Du Silence' delves into the profound and often overlooked power of silence and the unspoken words that carry deep meaning. The lyrics begin with the singer's realization that there are words we do not hear, suggesting a deeper, almost mystical communication that transcends ordinary speech. This theme is introduced through an encounter with a shadow that urges the singer to listen more closely, hinting at the presence of a voice that speaks in unknown words, covered by the silence.

As the song progresses, Laforêt describes a walk where nature itself becomes a storyteller. The poplars bend to share their secrets, and the wind and sea speak softly, reinforcing the idea that true understanding and communication often come from listening to the natural world and the quiet moments. This connection to nature highlights a contrast with human behavior, where people throw words to the wind, speak without truly communicating, and fail to listen. The repetition of familiar songs that no voice has ever truly echoed symbolizes the emptiness of such noise.

The song also critiques modern life, where people no longer see the beauty in flowers and have hearts marked by the wrinkles of neglect. They make noise in an attempt to fill the void in their lives, yet even the softest tones, like drops of dew, are stifled, much like the voice of silence. In the final verse, the singer lies beside a loved one, afraid to speak for fear that their words will blend with the world's noise. However, the depth of their love promises that one day, the loved one will understand and hear the words of silence. This ending underscores the intimate and personal nature of true communication, which often lies beyond spoken words.