Le carrosse (il attendait son carrosse)

Yves Montand's song "Le carrosse (il attendait son carrosse)" is a poignant narrative about a boy who never quite fit in with his peers. While other children played and engaged in typical childhood activities, this boy was lost in his own world, dreaming of grandeur and nobility. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a child who, despite his humble surroundings, imagines himself surrounded by barons and castles, waiting for his carriage and horses to arrive. This dreamer, nicknamed "Monsieur Carabosse," is a symbol of unyielding imagination and the power of dreams to transcend reality.

As the song progresses, we see the boy grow into a man, yet his dreams remain unchanged. He is found selling flint stones on the streets, still crowned with the sparkles of his imagination, reminiscent of a king after a grand feast. His unwavering belief in his dreams is both touching and tragic, as he continues to wait for his carriage and horses, now accompanied by his loyal companion, Yvonne. This steadfastness in his dreams, despite the passage of time and the changes in the world around him, highlights the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.

The song concludes with a reflection on the passage of time and the constancy of the dreamer's vision. While the world around him undergoes significant transformations, he remains steadfast in his belief, selling his flint stones and waiting for his carriage. The recurring mention of Yvonne, his faithful companion, adds a layer of warmth and loyalty to the narrative. Montand's lyrics celebrate the wonder of childhood dreams and the strength it takes to hold onto them, even when faced with the harsh realities of life. The dreamer's story is a testament to the enduring power of imagination and the hope it brings.