Song meaning of Frenchette by David Johansen

The lyrics of the song "Frenchette" by David Johansen convey a message about the speaker's disillusionment with love and their desire to escape from its complexities through dancing. The speaker compares the idea of love to "Frenchette," suggesting that it is a watered-down version, lacking the depth and authenticity they long for. They have experienced love in France, symbolizing a more genuine and passionate form of love, but now seek solace in simple interactions and fleeting connections, like those found in a luncheonette.

The speaker expresses their frustration with not being able to find the love they desire and acknowledges that dancing is a way to temporarily forget their longing. They are resistant to the artificiality and superficiality of love, dismissing it as "naturalette" and "leatherette." The speaker craves a deeper connection and invites their partner to come into their kitchen and dining room, symbolizing a desire for intimacy beyond the superficial.

The mention of various music groups, such as The Marvelettes and The Ronettes, highlights the speaker's fondness for a time when love seemed more genuine and passionate. This further emphasizes their disillusionment with contemporary love. Ultimately, the speaker concludes that they can't find the love they want or need and suggests that dancing is a temporary escape from this frustration.

Overall, the lyrics of "Frenchette" explore the speaker's longing for genuine love and their dissatisfaction with the shallow connections they encounter. Dancing serves as a temporary refuge, allowing them to momentarily forget their desire for a deeper emotional connection.