Ô Tristesse
David Lafore Lyrics

The lyrics to David Lafore's song "Ô Tristesse" evoke a feeling of deep sadness and melancholy. The repetition of the phrase "Ô tristesse" emphasizes the overwhelming presence of sadness that has been holding the singer in its embrace for a hundred years. The image of the singer's activities and appearance adds to the sense of despair. The mention of the sabot (wooden clog) crushing straw, the elbow shining with zinc, and the hair washing windows suggests mundane and repetitive actions, symbolizing a monotonous existence. The vivid imagery continues with the mention of the singer's rear end in the listener's eye and vice versa, drawing attention to the intrusion and intimacy of this enduring sadness.

The repetition of the refrain "Ô tristesse, ô tristesse" reinforces the weight and longevity of this sorrow that has been carried for a century. The mentioning of the "face shining with salt" and the teeth chewing on each other adds to the physical toll this sadness has taken on the singer. The line "Mon œil dans ton cul, tu l'as vu?" (My eye in your rear end, did you see it?) further emphasizes this sense of intrusion and entanglement with the sadness that holds the singer captive.

Overall, "Ô Tristesse" portrays a profound and enduring sadness that seems to have engulfed the singer for a century. The lyrics use striking imagery and repetition to convey the weight of this emotional burden.