À la longue

Coralie Clément's song "À la longue" delves into the gradual erosion of relationships and the emotional numbness that can ensue over time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple whose connection has deteriorated, leaving them isolated and indifferent. The imagery of "the yellow sun" and "azure shadow" suggests a once vibrant relationship now overshadowed by neglect and distance. The phrase "à la longue" (over time) is repeated throughout, emphasizing the slow, almost imperceptible decline that can occur in both love and life.

The song explores themes of communication breakdown and emotional detachment. The line "on ne parle qu'en signe" (we only speak in signs) highlights the lack of verbal communication, while "le silence est le plus bruyant des fracas" (silence is the loudest crash) underscores the profound impact of unspoken words. This silence becomes a metaphor for the emotional chasm that has formed between the couple, where even the act of falling asleep is seen as a "bad sign."

Clément also touches on the idea of self-imposed suffering and the struggle to break free from it. The repeated urging to "va t'en avant que tu t'en ailles" (leave before you leave) suggests a desire to escape the cycle of pain and indifference. The metaphor of a "machete" cutting away one's cultivated pain speaks to the difficulty of letting go of familiar, albeit painful, emotions. Ultimately, the song reflects on the human tendency to become trapped in cycles of misery, where even mundane acts like walking a dog become symbols of fleeting happiness.