Lyrics For Come What May

A Deep Dive into the Lyrics of "Come What May": Exploring Love, Loss, and the Inevitability of Fate

"Come What May," the iconic duet from the 2001 film Moulin Rouge!, is more than just a beautiful song; it's a poignant exploration of love's complexities against the backdrop of inevitable fate. This article delves deep into the lyrics, analyzing their meaning, symbolism, and the powerful emotions they evoke. We'll unpack the themes of unwavering devotion, the acceptance of mortality, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. Understanding the lyrical nuances reveals a profound and timeless message about the human experience.

The Context: Love in the Bohemian Underworld of Moulin Rouge!

Before diving into the lyrics themselves, it's crucial to understand the context in which "Come What May" exists. The song is sung by Christian, a struggling writer, and Satine, a courtesan at the Moulin Rouge, a Parisian nightclub in the Belle Époque. Their love story is fraught with challenges: Satine's contractual obligations to the club's owner, the societal stigma surrounding their relationship, and the ever-present threat of Satine's declining health due to consumption. The song, therefore, is not just a romantic declaration; it’s a desperate plea for connection and an acceptance of their uncertain future.

Dissecting the Lyrics: A Line-by-Line Analysis

The beauty of "Come What May" lies in its simplicity and its profound emotional depth. Let’s analyze the lyrics line by line, exploring the nuances and the imagery employed:

Verse 1 (Christian):

"Look at the stars, look how they shine for you and for me"

This opening line immediately establishes the romantic setting and the awe-inspiring nature of their love. The stars represent something vast, eternal, and beyond their earthly troubles. It’s a declaration that their love is as significant and enduring as the celestial bodies.

"And everywhere you look at me"

The focus shifts from the external beauty of the universe to the intimacy of their shared gaze. It underscores the personal and deeply felt nature of their connection.

"I know I'm always with you"

This line speaks to the unwavering commitment and devotion Christian feels toward Satine. It's a reassurance, a promise of constant presence even amidst the uncertainties of their lives.

Verse 2 (Satine):

"What if I'm your only love"

Satine’s response introduces an element of doubt and vulnerability. She questions the permanence of their relationship, acknowledging the inherent precariousness of their situation.

"What if my heart will follow where your heart leads"

This line is a beautiful surrender to love. Satine expresses her willingness to follow Christian’s lead, implicitly accepting the risks involved.

"Whatever comes"

This brief phrase acts as a pivotal point, acknowledging that the future is uncertain and potentially challenging. Yet, Satine is willing to face it alongside Christian.

"I'm in your arms"

This emphasizes the physical intimacy and emotional security they find in each other. Being in each other’s arms suggests a sanctuary from the harsh realities of their world.

Chorus (Christian & Satine):

"Come what may"

This powerful phrase, repeated throughout the song, encapsulates the central theme: acceptance of whatever the future holds, regardless of its challenges. It's a defiant declaration of love's strength in the face of fate.

"Come what may"

The repetition emphasizes the resolve and unwavering commitment they share.

"I will love you until my dying day"

This is a vow of eternal love, a promise that transcends the limitations of time and mortality. It suggests a love that will endure even beyond death.

Verse 3 (Christian):

"And it's enough, it has to be"

Christian acknowledges the potential limitations and hardships they may face, but he concludes that their love, in its intensity, is sufficient.

"I'll love you, I'll love you"

The simple repetition underscores the depth and sincerity of his feelings. It’s a mantra, a reassurance to both himself and Satine.

"Forever and always"

This reinforces the commitment to an everlasting love, echoing the vow made in the chorus.

Verse 4 (Satine):

"And what if all I've got is this"

This line introduces a sense of desperation, a fear of losing everything. Satine grapples with the limitations of her circumstances.

"And what if it's all there is"

This line reflects a poignant acceptance of their reality. Even if their love is all they have, Satine finds strength and solace in that reality.

"I'll love you, I'll love you"

Her repetition of “I’ll love you” mirrors Christian’s, creating a powerful harmony of shared devotion.

"Forever and always"

She echoes Christian’s sentiments, solidifying their shared commitment and their mutual acceptance of their fate.

Chorus (Christian & Satine):

"Come what may"

The repeated refrain underscores their unwavering resolve.

"Come what may"

It's a defiant acceptance of the unknown.

"I will love you until my dying day"

The final reiteration of this vow emphasizes its ultimate significance and strength.

The Power of Simplicity and Repetition

The song's power doesn't come from complex metaphors or intricate wordplay. Instead, it relies on simple yet potent phrases, repeated to emphasize their emotional weight. The repetition of "Come what may" and "I will love you until my dying day" creates a hypnotic effect, amplifying the emotional impact of the lyrics and reinforcing the central theme of unwavering devotion.

Symbolism and Imagery

The song’s imagery is sparse but effective. The stars symbolize eternity and the vastness of the universe, contrasting with the fragility of their human existence. Their shared gaze and being in each other's arms represent the intimacy and security they find in their love. The impending doom of Satine’s illness is left implicit, creating a sense of tension and foreboding that underlies the otherwise optimistic declarations of love.

The Emotional Resonance of "Come What May"

The song’s impact comes not just from its carefully chosen words, but also from its emotional delivery. The melody, the vocal harmonies, and the overall arrangement contribute to the song’s emotional depth, making it a moving experience for the listener. The raw emotion conveyed by the singers makes the lyrics deeply resonant, connecting with the listener on a visceral level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the central theme of "Come What May"?

A: The central theme is the unwavering commitment of two lovers to each other, despite the uncertainties and challenges they face. It's about accepting fate and finding solace and strength in the power of their love.

Q: What is the significance of the repeated phrase "Come what may"?

A: The phrase signifies acceptance of whatever the future holds, both good and bad. It represents a defiant stance against the inevitability of fate, choosing love as the guiding principle despite potential obstacles.

Q: Who wrote "Come What May"?

A: The music was written by Craig Armstrong, and the lyrics were written by Baz Luhrmann and his creative collaborators.

Q: Why is "Come What May" considered a classic?

A: It’s considered a classic due to its powerful lyrics, its moving melody, and its emotional resonance. The song speaks to universal themes of love, loss, and the acceptance of fate, making it relatable across cultures and generations.

Conclusion: A Timeless Testament to Love

"Come What May" is more than just a song; it's a timeless testament to the power of love. The lyrics, with their simple yet powerful phrasing, capture the essence of unwavering devotion and acceptance of fate. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level, reminding us of the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. The simple beauty of the words, the evocative imagery, and the powerful delivery create a lasting impression, making "Come What May" a truly iconic and unforgettable piece of musical storytelling. It’s a song that continues to resonate with audiences because it speaks to the fundamental human experiences of love, loss, and the acceptance of the unknown.