Tables séparées [English translation]

The door all of a sudden opens

and my memory is jolted.

It is you coming in—

into this familiar restaurant

where we have often hidden

our fond dinners.

I stop listening to my friends.

As a dodge, I light

my cigarette.

I know very well that you spotted me

and now I do not dare

to look your way.

The girl who is on your arm

is fifteen years younger than you.

That must reassure you.

I remember that you laughed

when I said that regrets

have a tough skin.

A little embarrassed, you acknowledge me

and ask for the menu

in a quiet voice.

We who have shared everything—

here we are at separate tables,

each in our own space.

I watch you stealthily.

You have not changed much

with women.

You do not have to do much

when you go out with your paramore—

you cast a spell with your charm.

And I believed myself inoculated.

I had even imagined

this close encounter.

My friends are singing and acting mad.

How do I tell them that I do not care—

that I am jaded?

When love is written in the past

I still have to get rid of it.

Nothing but two separate tables.

• Artist:Dalida