C'est La Vie

UB40's song 'C'est La Vie' delves into the harsh and often overlooked realities of life, using vivid storytelling to highlight societal issues. The phrase 'C'est La Vie,' which translates to 'That's life' in French, serves as a refrain that underscores the resignation and acceptance of these grim realities. The song opens with a poignant narrative about a woman who sells her baby for a meager sum, a desperate act that society dismisses as madness without understanding the underlying causes. This story is a metaphor for the broader societal neglect of the marginalized and the suffering that often goes unnoticed or unaddressed.

The second verse shifts focus to the violence and strife that plague communities, with 'brother killing brother' and people enduring hardships symbolized by 'biting sugar-coated bullets.' This imagery suggests that the pain and suffering are often masked or downplayed, making it easier for society to ignore. The song critiques the superficial ways in which serious issues are often treated, both by individuals and the media, which offers 'real horror, daily, courtesy of your TV.'

In the final verse, the song tells the story of a woman who loses her husband to violence and is left to mourn alone. Her journey to find her brother in hopes of retrieving her baby underscores the themes of loss, desperation, and the lengths to which people will go to seek justice or solace. The recurring refrain 'C'est La Vie' serves as a bitter acknowledgment of these harsh truths, suggesting a sense of inevitability and resignation. UB40 uses this song to shine a light on the darker aspects of human existence, urging listeners to confront and acknowledge these uncomfortable realities.