Balancé
Georges Moustaki Lyrics

The lyrics of Georges Moustaki's song "Balancé" express the singer's lack of ability and interest in dancing. The repetition of "J'sais pas danser, pas danser" ("I don't know how to dance, don't dance") emphasizes this point, highlighting the singer's unfamiliarity with and aversion to dancing. The phrase "Ni m'Balancer, m'Balancer" ("Nor to swing, swing") further reinforces their reluctance to engage in any kind of rhythmic movement.

The singer expresses their weariness with the idea of "se trémousser" ("shaking or wiggling"), suggesting that dancing requires a physical effort that they simply do not want to exert. They feel that their lack of dancing skills makes them an undesirable partner, as they would end up stepping on their partner's feet: "Je te marcherais sur les pieds" ("I would step on your feet"). This emphasizes the singer's self-consciousness and indicates that they would rather avoid dancing altogether.

The mention of a Brazilian song that makes the singer feel like moving implies a momentary desire to overcome their inhibitions. However, even with this newfound audacity, their body remains "figé" ("stuck" or "frozen"), symbolizing their inability to break free from their dancing limitations. This reinforces the theme of the singer's unease and discomfort with dancing.

However, the lyrics suggest that the singer's lack of dancing ability and interest does not extend to other activities. If their partner were to propose alternative encounters or games, the singer would be willing to participate: "Mais si jamais tu proposes/D′autres ébats, d′autres jeux" ("But if you propose/Other encounters, other games"). In this context, the singer would be willing to follow their partner's lead and engage more fully. This indicates that their reluctance to dance is specific to that activity, rather than a general disinterest in all forms of physical engagement.

Overall, "Balancé" portrays the singer's aversion to dancing due to their lack of skills and disinterest. It explores themes of self-consciousness, weariness, and the singer's willingness to engage in alternative activities instead.