Gentil coquelicot
Chansons et comptines Lyrics

The lyrics to "Gentil coquelicot" by Chansons et comptines tell a charming story about a person who goes down into their garden to pick some rosemary. The repetition of the lines "J'ai descendu dans mon jardin" emphasizes the act of descending and creates a sense of entering a different world, away from the everyday hustle and bustle.

As the person picks the rosemary, a nightingale unexpectedly lands on their hand. This encounter with the bird adds a touch of magic to the story. The repetition of the line "J'n'en avais pas cueilli trois brins" suggests that the person had barely picked any rosemary before this enchanting moment happened.

The nightingale then proceeds to speak three words in Latin to the person. The choice to use Latin adds a sense of mystery and wisdom to the encounter. The nightingale's message is that men are worthless, implying that they fall short in some way. This can be seen as a commentary on human nature and the flaws that exist within society.

Interestingly, the nightingale does not mention anything about women. Instead, it speaks highly of young unmarried girls, suggesting that they have many positive qualities. This could be seen as a contrast to the earlier message about men, highlighting the idea that women are valuable and deserving of praise.

Overall, the lyrics of "Gentil coquelicot" weave together a tale of a special moment in a garden, where unexpected encounters with nature and wise teachings challenge common perceptions. Through its poetic imagery, the song invites listeners to reflect on the contrasting qualities of men and women and encourages appreciation for the beauty found within nature.