L'alcool

Serge Gainsbourg's song 'L'alcool' is a poignant exploration of disillusionment, escapism, and the fleeting nature of dreams. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who feels trapped in a monotonous and unfulfilling life. His 'illusions donnent sur la cour' (illusions overlook the courtyard), suggesting that his dreams and aspirations are confined and limited. The daily grind leaves him exhausted, with only the 'horrible flowers' of his room to keep him company, symbolizing the decay of his hopes and the bleakness of his reality.

The song delves into the protagonist's sense of isolation and the loss of love. He has 'mis une croix sur mes amours' (put a cross on my loves), indicating that he has given up on romantic relationships. The imagery of 'p'tites pépées' (little girls) being cold unless laid down first reflects his disillusionment with superficial connections. His return from work, dirty and tired, only reinforces his sense of unworthiness and the disdain he faces from others. Even the 'filles de joie' (joy girls) offer no solace, as their bodies are marked by indifference and melancholy.

However, the song takes a turn when the protagonist finds solace in alcohol. In the 'troquets du faubourg' (suburban bars), he indulges in 'ardoises de rêveries' (slates of daydreams) and irony. The alcohol allows him to escape his dreary existence and imagine a life filled with luxury and affection. He envisions 'châteaux espagnols' (Spanish castles), 'haras' (stud farms), and 'duchesses,' symbolizing grandiose and unattainable dreams. The alcohol reignites the 'flamme' (flame) in his soul, where his brief loves once burned like 'feux de paille' (straw fires). Yet, as the bars close and the neon lights fade, he is left to be guided by the 'dieu des ivrognes' (god of drunks), highlighting the cyclical nature of his escapism and the temporary relief it provides.