Meaning and Lyrics of Des larmes by Mylène Farmer

The song “Des larmes” by Mylène Farmer delves into themes of isolation, longing, and emotional turmoil. The lyrics paint a picture of a person trapped in a metaphorical glass prison, struggling with inner conflicts and a deep sense of loneliness.

In the first verse, the persona expresses a feeling of not knowing what to do, resorting to self-preservation by shielding themselves from potential abandonment. They reject compliments and feel alone despite being surrounded by people. The mention of marrying oneself and finding solace in the crowd suggests a complex relationship with self-worth and external validation.

The pre-chorus reflects a sense of despair and resignation towards life’s challenges. The persona feels overwhelmed by the weight of existence, likening it to being in a coffin and finding it hard to face each day. References to literary works like Baudelaire’s “Le Gouffre” hint at a dark and introspective mindset, where the persona seeks solace in reading but ultimately feels disconnected and lost.

The chorus emphasizes the theme of tears, symbolizing a mix of sorrow and joy that the persona experiences. Tears become a physical manifestation of their emotional state, tracing paths on their cheeks as a visual representation of their inner struggles. The repeated question “À quoi bon vivre si t’es pas là” (What’s the point of living if you’re not here) highlights a deep sense of longing and a poignant question about the purpose of life without the presence of a significant other.

The second verse mirrors the first, with the persona continuing to grapple with their emotions and the perceived fragility of their connections with others. Despite embracing life and even fearing the abandonment of a higher power, they still feel alone and uncertain about the longevity of their emotional state. Seeking solace in the crowd and distant locations like Toulouse or the Sacré-Cœur indicates a desire for connection and collective experiences.

Overall, “Des larmes” conveys a profound sense of emotional vulnerability, introspection, and a quest for meaning amidst personal turmoil. The recurring motif of tears serves as a powerful symbol of the persona’s inner turmoil and the fragility of human emotions in the face of loneliness and existential questioning.