Comme un ragazzo

Sylvie Vartan's song 'Comme un ragazzo' (the Italian version of 'Comme un garçon') is a powerful anthem that challenges traditional gender roles and expectations. The lyrics describe a woman who adopts behaviors and styles typically associated with men, such as wearing sweaters, riding a motorcycle, and leading a gang of friends. By doing so, she asserts her independence and strength, refusing to conform to societal norms that dictate how women should behave and present themselves.

The song's protagonist is unapologetically herself, embodying traits that are often seen as masculine. She wears her hair down, sports sweaters, and keeps her pants up with a belt, just like a boy. She is determined and unyielding, never lowering her gaze first when looked at in the eyes. This defiance is a clear statement of her confidence and self-assuredness. Despite these 'masculine' traits, she acknowledges her femininity and emotional vulnerability, especially in the lines where she admits that she feels lost without her partner.

'Comme un ragazzo' is not just about breaking gender norms; it's also about the complexity of identity. The protagonist is both strong and tender, independent yet deeply connected to her loved one. This duality reflects the multifaceted nature of human identity, which cannot be confined to simple categories of 'masculine' or 'feminine.' Sylvie Vartan, a prominent figure in the yé-yé movement of the 1960s, uses this song to convey a message of empowerment and self-acceptance, encouraging listeners to embrace all aspects of themselves, regardless of societal expectations.