Meaning of "Langue d'Amour" by Laurie Anderson

"Langue d'Amour" by Laurie Anderson explores the transformative power of language and storytelling. The surreal imagery of a snake with legs and sharks walking on land serves as a metaphor for the captivating allure of words and narratives. The snake represents a mysterious figure who introduces the woman to a new way of seeing the world, sparking her curiosity and desire for adventure. This leads her to feel love and passion, ultimately becoming disillusioned with her previous contentment. The contrast between the man, who represents stability and complacency, and the snake, who embodies excitement and passion, highlights the dual nature of human relationships and the eternal quest for fulfillment. The repeated phrases in French, such as "Voici le langage de l'amour" (This is the language of love) and "Voici le langage dans mon coeur" (This is the language of my heart), emphasize the universal and timeless nature of love and communication. Overall, the lyrics invite listeners to reflect on the power of words to shape our perceptions, emotions, and relationships, illustrating how language can be a source of both joy and turmoil in human experience.