Le Déserteur
Boris Vian
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Monsieur le Président Je vous fais une lettre Que vous lirez peut-être Si vous avez le temps Je viens de recevoir Mes papiers militaires Pour partir à la guerre Avant mercredi soir Monsieur le Président Je ne veux pas la faire Je ne suis pas sur terre Pour tuer des pauvres gens C'est pas pour vous fâcher Il faut que je vous dise Ma décision est prise Je m'en vais déserter Depuis que je suis né J'ai vu mourir mon père J'ai vu partir mes frères Et pleurer mes enfants Ma mère a tant souffert Elle est dedans sa tombe Et se moque des bombes Et se moque des vers Quand j'étais prisonnier On m'a volé ma femme On m'a volé mon âme Et tout mon cher passé Demain de bon matin Je fermerai ma porte Au nez des années mortes J'irai sur les chemins Je mendierai ma vie Sur les routes de France De Bretagne en Provence Et je dirai aux gens: Refusez d'obéir Refusez de la faire N'allez pas à la guerre Refusez de partir S'il faut donner son sang Allez donner le vôtre Vous êtes bon apôtre Monsieur le Président Si vous me poursuivez Prévenez vos gendarmes Que je n'aurai pas d'armes Et qu'ils pourront tirer
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Written by: BORIS VIAN, HAROLD B BERG
Lyrics © EDITIONS MUSICALES DJANIK, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Historical Context"Le Déserteur" was written in 1954, in the context of the Algerian War, a period of significant political and social upheaval in France. Despite this historical background, Vian always denied that he had a specific conflict in mind when he wrote the song.
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Ban in FranceUpon its release, "Le Déserteur" was banned by the French government for its pacifist and anti-war themes. It was considered a subversive song and was not broadcast on the radio until the end of the Algerian War in 1962.
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Writer of the SongBoris Vian, the songwriter of "Le Déserteur," was a prominent figure in French cultural life, known for his novels, plays, songs, and jazz music. His eclectic career also included work as an actor, translator, engineer, and inventor.
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Lyrics ContentThe lyrics of "Le Déserteur" take the form of a letter written by a man who refuses to fight in the war. He addresses the president, declaring his intent to desert the army and urging the leader to end the conflict.
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International SuccessDespite its controversial themes, the song found success internationally and has been translated into several languages. It's seen as a significant anthem against war, with covers performed by artists from various countries.
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Cultural Impact"Le Déserteur" became a chant for the pacifist and anti-war movements worldwide, particularly during the Vietnam War era.
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Use in Popular CultureThe song has been covered by many artists and used in several films and television series, demonstrating its enduring popularity and influence.
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ControversyWhile "Le Déserteur" is hailed for its anti-war stance, it has also been criticized for betraying the French troops and showing disrespect to the soldiers who gave their lives for their country.
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Influence on SongwritingThe bold and direct lyrics of "Le Déserteur" influenced many songwriters and musicians for its strong political message, opening the door to more songs that challenge the status quo.
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Unique Musical StyleMusically, "Le Déserteur" is distinct for its simplicity and starkness, which underscore the raw and emotional power of the lyrics.
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Citation
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