The song "Renée Falconetti Of Orléans" by Jenny Hval centers around the actress Renée Falconetti, who is famous for her role in the 1928 film "The Passion of Joan of Arc." The lyrics explore the themes of gender, identity, and sexuality. The song starts by questioning the beauty and significance of colored eyes, stating that they have nothing to do with one's identity. The chorus mentions Renée Falconetti and how the camera is a mirror for the singer's own identity, rather than the actress's. The lyrics suggest that Renée is unsure of her own identity, stating that for a hundred days she could be either a virgin or a young boy. The song then delves into themes of innocence and kinkiness, with the singer implying that "innocence is just too kinky." The lyrics also criticize Renée's appearance, stating that her hair is too short and her face is too big. The chorus repeats the phrase "an act of love," implying that Renée's perceived inadequacies are overlooked or dismissed by those who love her. The bridge of the song discusses the act of sex and how the voice and eyes of a lover can be considered an act of love. The lyrics also mention living "bare and barely" for someone, suggesting a sense of vulnerability and exposure. The final part of the song is more abstract, with the lyrics mentioning holy water and bulimia. The imagery of throwing up and burning suggests a sense of self-harm or self-loathing. The repeated mentions of "your face, my face, the face" suggest a merging or confusion of identities. Overall, "Renée Falconetti Of Orléans" is a complex exploration of identity, sexuality, and societal expectations. The lyrics are open to interpretation and suggest a deep sense of personal struggle and introspection.
