La complainte de Kesoubah
Louis Ville Lyrics
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Le père était tondeur de chiens
La mère faisait des lessives
Faut bien travailler pour qu
'on mange bien
La Complaint de Kesoubah, sung by Louis Ville, is a touching narrative describing the struggles of a family living in Porte Saint Ouen. The lyrics detail the daily life of the family where the father, portrayed as a dog groomer, and the mother, a laundress, work hard to make ends meet so that they can eat well. The challenging circumstances of the family are apparent in the song. The absence of any commentary or judgment by Ville allows the listener to empathize with the family's struggles and hardships.
The songwriter employs juxtaposition to depict the realities of the family's life. For example, while the mother works hard at doing laundry, the father shears dogs. The song's central theme is the importance of hard work and resilience, even in the face of adversity. The couple's dedication to providing for their family despite their difficult circumstances is a testament to their unwavering love for each other and their children.
Overall, the song is a powerful commentary on the working-class population and the struggles they face daily. It blends social realism and empathy, creating a poignant work of art that is both beautifully crafted and incredibly moving.
Contributed by Leo W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.