Les Remparts
Étienne Daho Lyrics

The lyrics of "Les Remparts" by Étienne Daho delve into the complexities of passion, highlighting how it thrives on absence, silence, and shared exquisite suffering. The singer reflects on a dynamic where their partner believed that to captivate them, they needed to keep them waiting and in suspense, constructing walls around themselves adorned with mystery and allure. This strategy involved resistance, maintaining distance, and then unleashing emotions with a sense of elegance. The concept of passion being fueled by doubt, delivered in small doses through a mix of kisses and metaphorical kicks, is also explored. The repetition and reinforcement of the belief that one must put the other through waiting and peril to elicit a response underpin the emotional turmoil and intensity of the relationship.

The imagery of building fortifications and concealing oneself in a facade of secrets and embellishments acts as a metaphor for the barriers erected in the relationship. The partner believed that this approach was necessary to command the attention and affection of the singer. This cycle of resistance, keeping a safe distance, and then unleashing emotions to maintain a sense of sophistication and allure shows the intricate dance of power dynamics and emotional manipulation within the relationship. The reference to an extreme S&M system adds a layer of intensity and imbalance to the narrative, suggesting that the partner's methods were extreme in their control and manipulation, bordering on the sadomasochistic.

The lyrics question the necessity of such elaborate schemes and manipulations in love and desire. Despite the complexities and pain caused by these tactics, the singer ends with a poignant declaration of love, affirming their attachment to their partner despite the turmoil. This juxtaposition of intense emotions, manipulation, and affection underscores the conflicting nature of passion and relationships. The realization that despite the struggles and obstacles, love endures, adds a sense of hope and resilience to the narrative. The song captures the tumultuous journey of navigating love, desire, and power within a complex and intense relationship, ultimately culminating in a declaration of enduring affection despite the challenges faced.