Guerre, guerre, vente, vent

Tri Yann's song "Guerre, guerre, vente, vent" is a poignant narrative that captures the life of a sailor returning home after years of war and hardship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's journey, both physically and emotionally, as he navigates the tumultuous seas and the equally turbulent experiences of war. The repetition of the phrase "Guerre, guerre, vente, vent" (War, war, wind, wind) serves as a haunting refrain, emphasizing the relentless and cyclical nature of his struggles.

The song begins with the sailor recounting his seven years of war and building, a testament to the long and arduous journey he has endured. His return to Lorient, a port city in Brittany, France, symbolizes a homecoming, yet it is tinged with the weariness of his experiences. The imagery of standing on the ship's deck through various weather conditions—"sous bon vent, sous vent contraire" (under good wind, under contrary wind)—reflects the constant challenges he faced, both at sea and in life.

As the sailor arrives home, he is burdened with a "sac de misère" (bag of misery), filled with empty gourds and devoid of money, highlighting the material and emotional toll of his journey. His longing for his loved ones is palpable, especially in his reunion with his beloved, whom he addresses as "ma mie" (my dear). The sailor's fatigue from the endless wars and his desire to see his children grow underscore the personal sacrifices made during his absence. The song also touches on the theme of communication, with the sailor receiving letters from his beloved and sending back tokens like ribbons, symbolizing the fragile connections maintained across the distance.

The final verses of the song reflect a sense of hope and renewal. The sailor speaks of having more time to spend with his friends and loved ones after the years of war, and the imagery of winter flowers heralding spring suggests a new beginning. The cyclical nature of the refrain "Guerre, guerre, vente, vent" ultimately transforms from a symbol of struggle to one of resilience and the promise of better days ahead.