Que calor la vida
Marie Laforêt
The Warmth and Simplicity of Life in 'Que calor la vida'
Marie Laforêt's song 'Que calor la vida' is a celebration of the simple joys and warmth of life. The recurring refrain, 'Et Nana sur son ballon rouge / Fait bondir le soleil d'été / C'est si bon de ne pas penser / Que calor, que calor, la vida,' evokes a carefree and joyful atmosphere. The image of Nana bouncing on her red balloon, making the summer sun dance, symbolizes innocence and the pure delight of living in the moment without overthinking. The repetition of 'Que calor, que calor, la vida' emphasizes the warmth and vibrancy of life, suggesting that life is best enjoyed when we embrace its simple pleasures.
The verses further paint a picture of a serene and idyllic world. The chaisière (chairwoman) falling asleep at noon in paradise and the carousel turning round and round create a sense of timelessness and peace. The mention of Guignol, a traditional French puppet character, and the préfet (prefect) playing the drum adds a whimsical touch, blending elements of childhood nostalgia with the present. This world, where everything moves and is colored in red, represents a lively and dynamic existence, yet one that is also filled with love and harmony.
The song also touches on the idea of love and its enduring nature. The line 'L'amour sera toujours l'amour' (Love will always be love) suggests that despite the chaos and movement of the world, love remains a constant and comforting presence. The final verses, where the préfet and the chaisière go to paradise to love each other, reinforce the theme of love as a refuge and a source of happiness. The song concludes with a reminder to not overthink and to simply enjoy the warmth and beauty of life, encapsulated in the repeated phrase 'Calor la vida.'