The song "Vitriol" by Julien Doré revolves around the themes of desire, disappointment, and the complexities of a toxic relationship. In the lyrics, Doré describes himself as drinking the "syrup of the sun," which represents the intoxicating allure and beauty of his partner. The rays of the sun on her forehead playfully dance and then waver, indicating the unpredictability and instability in their relationship. He admires her delicate eyelids and acknowledges that her gaze, like a machine gun, both captivates and controls him. The chorus reveals Doré's longing for a small piece of paradise ("un petit bout d'Atoll") amidst the turbulences of their love. He mentions fabrics and insults, suggesting that despite everything falling apart, he still desires the passionate intensity and fervor in their connection. The "bain de vitriol" (bath of vitriol) symbolizes the painful and corrosive nature of their relationship, but Doré still deceives himself into believing it is sweet. The second verse continues with the idea of desiring a piece of paradise ("un petit bout d'Atoll") and not being able to find it. Doré mentions their hidden transactions and negotiations but confesses that he no longer has the strength to search for an ounce of sincerity. The bridge repeats the longing for that small piece of paradise ("un petit bout d'Atoll") and the desire for the fabrics and insults, even if it means everything coming to an end. The farewell mentioned in the bridge refers to the bitter "bain de vitriol" that his partner has prepared for him. Despite its sweetness, it leaves him feeling cold and frozen. In the final repetition of the chorus, Doré once again expresses his desire for that small piece of paradise, emphasizing his craving for it. Overall, "Vitriol" conveys the complexity of a toxic relationship where desire and disappointment coexist, and the longing for a sense of paradise remains even in the face of bitterness and pain.
