Chanson cri

Georges Moustaki's song "Chanson cri" is a poignant and powerful call to action, addressing the pervasive issues of violence, particularly sexual violence, and societal indifference. The song begins with Moustaki expressing his desire for his song to be a cry of alarm, standing out amidst the superficiality of popular music. He acknowledges that even if his voice isn't loud enough, he hopes listeners will pay attention for just a few more minutes.

The lyrics delve into the harrowing reality of sexual violence, highlighting how society often dismisses these heinous acts as mere words in a newspaper. Moustaki recounts meeting a victim, describing the profound distress in her eyes and the routine manner in which the police handle such cases. He vividly portrays the aftermath of the assault, emphasizing the youth of the perpetrator and the lack of love or pleasure in the act, which only adds to the tragedy. This personal encounter leaves Moustaki questioning the moral fabric of society and feeling both pain for the victim and shame for the assailant.

Moustaki then broadens the scope of his critique, addressing the everyday, insidious forms of violation that permeate our lives, such as the abuse of power, money, and authority. He condemns the societal structures that perpetuate these injustices, from the authoritarian father to the rigid enforcers of order. He points out that these very structures create the marginalized individuals society often vilifies, such as rebellious youth and those struggling to survive. Moustaki's song is not just a critique but a plea for a better today, urging listeners to recognize the sinking ship of society and take collective responsibility to mend it. He concludes by stating that both victims and criminals are affected, and if there is a culprit, it is society as a whole that stands condemned.