Décollage

Thievery Corporation's 'Décollage' is a mesmerizing journey into the realms of transcendence and escape. The song, sung in French, uses the metaphor of space travel to describe a state of altered consciousness, likely induced by smoking. The repeated phrase 'Décollage dans l'espace' (Takeoff into space) and 'Décollage sur la lune' (Takeoff to the moon) evoke a sense of leaving the mundane behind and entering a new, almost surreal dimension. This imagery suggests a desire to break free from the constraints of everyday life and explore new, uncharted territories of the mind.

The lyrics also touch on the transformative power of music. When the protagonist says, 'La musique m'a pris' (The music took me), it indicates that music serves as a vehicle for this mental and emotional journey. The line 'J'ai surpassé mes peurs' (I have overcome my fears) suggests that this experience is not just about escape but also about personal growth and overcoming internal struggles. The music and the altered state of consciousness help the protagonist confront and surpass their fears, leading to a sense of peace and well-being.

The song also delves into the concept of perception and reality. The line 'Le monde est parallèle' (The world is parallel) hints at the idea that there are multiple layers of reality, and what we perceive is just one of them. The repeated assertion 'C'est pas un rêve' (It's not a dream) reinforces the idea that this altered state is as real and valid as our everyday experiences. This challenges the listener to reconsider their understanding of reality and the potential for different forms of existence.