J'avais Oublié Que Les Roses Sont Roses

Salvatore Adamo's song "J'avais Oublié Que Les Roses Sont Roses" is a poignant reflection on rediscovering the simple beauties of life that one might have overlooked or forgotten. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world filled with small, yet profound, joys such as a singing bird, a playing child, and a blooming flower. These elements symbolize the innocence and purity of life that the narrator had lost sight of. The repetition of the phrase "J'avais oublié" (I had forgotten) underscores a sense of nostalgia and a longing to reconnect with these forgotten beauties.

The song delves deeper into the theme of memory and renewal. The narrator describes a moment of enlightenment where a "douce lumière" (soft light) wraps around him, and familiar hands celebrate him like a king. This imagery suggests a return to a state of grace and happiness, reminiscent of a time when life was simpler and more joyful. The mention of "jolis pulls délavés" (pretty faded sweaters) and the act of dressing up to revisit the past further emphasize this journey back to a cherished, albeit forgotten, time.

In the final verse, the narrator acknowledges a past love that has become nothing more than a shadow in the sky. This acceptance marks a significant emotional shift, allowing the narrator to embrace a world where it is good to live, even if it means living without that lost love. The phrase "imbéciles heureux" (happy fools) captures the essence of finding happiness in simplicity and the mundane, a theme that resonates deeply throughout the song. Adamo's gentle, melodic style complements the reflective and introspective nature of the lyrics, making this song a beautiful ode to the rediscovery of life's simple pleasures.