Released: 2011
The Weeknd’s “Montreal” is a moody, reflective track that dives into themes of heartache, emotional complexity, and introspection. The song’s layered composition juxtaposes French lyrics inspired by the French song “Laisse tomber les filles” with The Weeknd’s confessional musings, creating a narrative that feels both personal and universally relatable.
The song opens with a refrain from the classic French pop song “Laisse tomber les filles,” which translates to “Drop the girls, drop the girls, one day you will be dropped.” This phrase is not just a literal translation but also a foreboding message about karma and the inevitability of emotional consequences. The repetition of this line underscores the cyclical nature of love and heartache, setting the tone for The Weeknd’s introspective verses.
As The Weeknd transitions into the English lyrics, he begins to peel back the layers of a complex emotional tapestry. He expresses a vulnerability often masked by his outward bravado, suggesting that the listener, presumably a past lover, could have influenced him in many ways. This sentiment reveals a softer side, one where he admits that beneath his tough exterior, he is not as invulnerable as he seems.
The core message of his verse explores missed opportunities and unspoken words. He suggests that had there been better communication or understanding, the relationship might have blossomed into something significant. This introspection reveals his awareness of the shared culpability in the relationship’s demise, even as he grapples with his solitude.
“Happiness exists when you don’t know a thing” is a particularly poignant line that speaks to the ignorance-is-bliss mentality. It’s a sharp reflection on how knowledge and awareness can often bring more pain than joy, and how sometimes it’s easier not to confront certain truths.
The repetition of “if we just went on” conveys a longing for an alternate reality where the relationship didn’t falter. The repetition and the hypothetical “could have” scenarios are haunting, resonating with anyone who’s ever pondered the “what ifs” in their relationships.
A distinct theme in the song is the duality of loneliness and longing. The Weeknd candidly admits that his emotional state when alone is incomparable, highlighting the intensity of his feelings when not distracted by external influences.
Despite the yearning and introspection, The Weeknd’s awareness of his natural inclination to lie as a defense mechanism suggests a conflict within himself. It paints a picture of a man torn between his desires and his self-destructive tendencies.
As the song winds back to the French refrain, there’s a sense of returning to an inevitable fateāthe circular nature of relationships and emotional encounters. It’s almost as if he’s reminding himself of the unavoidable nature of love’s highs and lows.
In summary, “Montreal” is a deep dive into the human condition, particularly the complexities of relationships. The interplay between French and English lyrics mirrors the dual nature of longing and loneliness. Historically, The Weeknd is known for his atmospheric soundscapes and introspective lyrics, making “Montreal” a quintessential representation of his artistry.
