Dodo

Stromae's song 'Dodo' is a poignant and unsettling portrayal of domestic abuse and its cyclical nature. The lyrics, delivered from the perspective of a narrator speaking to a child, detail the harrowing reality of living in a household where violence is present. The title 'Dodo' refers to a French lullaby, which contrasts sharply with the dark content of the song, creating a chilling juxtaposition.

The song begins with a command for the child to remain silent, even when witnessing the father's violence towards the mother. This silence is further enforced in situations of inappropriate behavior by other adults. The repetition of 'il faudra s'y faire' (one must get used to it) suggests a normalization of abuse, indicating that the child is being groomed to accept this behavior as a part of life. The lullaby refrain 'Dodo, l'enfant do' is used ironically, as the soothing intent of a lullaby is subverted to underscore the trauma the child experiences.

Stromae also touches on the perpetuation of abuse, as the child is told they will eventually mimic the behaviors of their parents. The mother is not spared criticism either, as her infidelity is mentioned, but it's clear that the focus is on the impact of these adult actions on the child. The song ends with a bleak outlook, suggesting that the child will only find peace in sleep, and possibly, in the escape of death, as indicated by the line 'Enfin tu dormira-a-a-as' (Finally, you will sleep). Stromae's 'Dodo' is a powerful commentary on the cycle of abuse and the scars it leaves on the most vulnerable.