The song "A-France" by Gaël Faye tells the story of the artist's experience as a Franco-Rwandan living in France. The lyrics describe his arrival in France a long time ago and his disillusionment with international organizations like the United Nations (ONU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (OTAN). He reflects on his childhood in Africa, specifically by Lake Tanganyika, and how he still feels connected to his friends there. The artist then talks about his life in Paris, which he now refers to as "Panam." He mentions the pollution, Berber grocery store owners, and the challenges of living in the city. However, he has adapted to this new environment and emphasizes his love for his sneakers and the urban landscape. He also mentions making money in August to pursue fortune. Although Gaël Faye considers himself a wordsmith rather than a rapper, he reflects on his life, which is often filled with bitterness. He uses the term "A-France" to describe France as an asylum, absence, and exile. He feels torn between his dreams, hopes, and expectations in both Africa and France, which he finds emotionally challenging. The artist reveals his heritage as a Franco-Rwandan, mentioning his father being a crocodile hunter and his mother using coconut milk. He initially had aspirations of becoming a minister but has since grown up and feels uncertain about his plans for Burundi. He questions whether he has any obligations towards Africa, contemplating the possibility of closing his eyes, settling down with a woman and children, and keeping his money. He deals with existential dilemmas and desires to create a new type of person through his romantic vision. Gaël Faye acknowledges being part of the diaspora, a part of the youthful generation that left their home country to seek success elsewhere. However, he recognizes the foolishness of wasting their lives and turning Europe into their cocoon. The artist reminisces about how their grandparents loved their land and livestock, yet the current generation finds themselves lost in wars and battles. He mentions the memories that paralyze him and the pain that he tries to heal. Reflecting on the sharpened machetes and the deaths in their churches, he keeps emphasizing his roots to affirm his existence. He recalls shedding too many tears and writing many texts. The song ends with a message to his sister, reminding her to embrace the family and their grandmother in Rwanda, and asking her to convey the message to their father about him not growing up or aging in France. Overall, "A-France" is a deeply personal song where Gaël Faye reflects on his journey, the challenges of living between two countries, and the complexity of identity and belonging.
