Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: opera
Song Meaning of “Andromaque: Act III: Est-ce Hermione? … Et que viens-je d’entendre? …” by André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry
This sorrowful and desolate piece by Grétry tells the story of Hermione, a constaintly tormented soul. The protagonist is overcome with grief and confusion, desperately wondering who she is and why she is in anguish. The song is a cry for help and understanding, begging for salvation from the darkness she finds herself in.
In the chorus, the protagonist pleads her case, asking ‘Est-ce Hermione?’, showing her confusion and disorientation. She can’t make sense of her own story, and the pain and sorrow weigh heavily upon her. It is almost as if she is lost in a maze without being able to find her way out. She longs to understand who she is and why her life has been so difficult, yet no answers are given.
The lyrics become increasingly desperate towards the end of the song. The protagonist is overwhelmed, wanting nothing more than to find someone or something to relieve her of her burdens. ‘Et que viens-je d’entendre?’ she cries out, her voice shaking with emotion. She is so close to a breakthrough, yet it eludes her once again.
The sorrowful tones of this piece reflect Hermione’s own suffering and confusion. Her battle for inner peace is long and arduous, and Grétry’s song reflects this struggle.