The Meaning Behind The Song: La Faute à Voltaire by Claude-Michel Schönberg
| Title | La Faute à Voltaire |
|---|---|
| Artist | Claude-Michel Schönberg |
| Writer/Composer | Claude-Michel Schönberg |
| Album | Les Misérables (Version originale 1980) (1980) |
| Release Date | N/A |
| Genre | Musical theatre |
| Duration | N/A |
| Producer | N/A |
“La Faute à Voltaire” is unique among the songs in Les Misérables in that it adapts a song actually sung by Gavroche in the novel.
In Volume V, Book 1, Chapter XV, Gavroche leaves the barricade to forage ammunition, and tauntingly sings this song at the National Guardsmen who shoot at him. Only the choruses (“On est laid à Nanterre”, “Je ne suis pas notaire”, “Joie est mon caractère”, and “Je suis tombé par terre”) are in the novel, the rest is original.
The Message of the Song
“La Faute à Voltaire” by Claude-Michel Schönberg captures the voice of Gavroche, a young street urchin who becomes one of the most beloved characters in Victor Hugo’s masterpiece, Les Misérables. The song serves as a poignant commentary on the societal injustices Gavroche faces as a result of his circumstances.
The lyrics, filled with metaphors and wordplay, are packed with meaning. Gavroche blames Voltaire and Rousseau for his misfortunes, holding them accountable for the inequality and poverty he experiences. By blaming these esteemed figures of the Enlightenment, Gavroche highlights the failure of society to address the needs of its most vulnerable members.
Through his witty lyrics, Gavroche paints a vivid picture of his life as a pauper. He describes himself as a small bird, constantly falling to the ground, sullied by the struggles of his existence. Despite his hardships, Gavroche finds solace in the company of others who are also marginalized. Together, they form a makeshift family, supporting one another and finding joy in the face of adversity.
Personal Reflection
Listening to “La Faute à Voltaire” resonates deeply with me, as it reminds me of my own encounters with the marginalized and dispossessed. In my work with underprivileged communities, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of societal barriers on individuals struggling to survive.
Like Gavroche, the people I have encountered often face a never-ending cycle of poverty and exclusion, with limited opportunities to escape their circumstances. The song serves as a powerful reminder that these injustices persist even in modern society.
Furthermore, “La Faute à Voltaire” raises questions about the responsibility of those in positions of power to address the systemic issues that perpetuate poverty and inequality. Gavroche’s blame on Voltaire and Rousseau challenges the notion that societal progress alone is sufficient to uplift the marginalized. It demands that we look beyond surface-level solutions and delve deeper into the root causes of these profound disparities.
The song’s poignant lyrics, carried by Claude-Michel Schönberg’s compelling composition, serve as a rallying cry for empathy and understanding. It challenges the listener to confront their own prejudices and preconceived notions about poverty and the individuals it affects.
“La Faute à Voltaire” continues to resonate through the years, reminding us of the enduring relevance of Victor Hugo’s masterpiece. Its exploration of the human condition and the struggle for justice serve as a timeless call to action.
In Conclusion
“La Faute à Voltaire” by Claude-Michel Schönberg is a song that carries deep meaning and serves as a powerful commentary on the societal injustices faced by the marginalized. Gavroche’s poetic lyrics and impassioned performance leave an indelible impression on the listener, challenging us to confront our own biases and advocate for a more equitable society.
The song’s message of resilience and unity is a source of inspiration, reminding us of the strength that can be found in community, even in the face of adversity. Through its portrayal of Gavroche’s struggles, “La Faute à Voltaire” sheds light on the systemic issues that perpetuate poverty and inequality, compelling us to strive for a world where every individual has an equal opportunity to thrive.
