Rail de Musique

Stromae's 'Rail de Musique' is a vivid portrayal of a life deeply intertwined with music, where melodies and rhythms become essential as air. The song's protagonist starts his day with a 'bowl of music' and a 'cup' of it, suggesting that music is his sustenance. The metaphor of 'putting on a partition' and 'closing buttons in lace' indicates that music is not just a part of his routine but an integral part of his identity. The urgency in his actions, like rushing to avoid being late, reflects the fast-paced nature of his life, driven by the beats and rhythms of his musical world.

The chorus equates music to various addictive substances, emphasizing its powerful hold on the protagonist. Terms like 'my clope, my chit, my dose, my weed, my coke, my speed, my crack, my music' illustrate how music serves as his escape and addiction. This comparison highlights the intensity of his dependence on music, suggesting that it provides him with the same highs and lows as these substances. The repetition of 'mail...odies' cleverly merges the mundane task of checking emails with the creation of melodies, showing how music permeates every aspect of his life.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist's struggle with time becomes evident. He tries to make time pass quickly by immersing himself in music, but the metronome and his own thoughts slow it down. The imagery of traffic jams and honking horns setting the tempo contrasts with the peaceful silence he yearns for. The hope of waking up early to 'inject a dose of micro' and 'over-prose' until his dreams become reality underscores his relentless pursuit of musical fulfillment. This relentless drive, coupled with the metaphor of addiction, paints a picture of a life where music is both a passion and a necessity, driving the protagonist to the brink of obsession.