An Examination of the People's Poetry Characteristics in the Works of 1950s Chansonniers

This study aims to analyze the lyrics of chanson songs from the 1950s in order to examine the populist characteristics inherent in the works of the period. For this purpose, four chanson artists—Georges Brassens, Jacques Brel, Boris Vian, and Léo Ferré—who released albums during the 1950s, are selected for the analysis of prevailing trends and populist features in their compositions. In the aftermath of World War II, Europe experienced widespread human and material losses, which posed significant barriers to social stability. Artists and writers of the time depicted the horrors of war and the existential struggles of humanity through their works. Chanson songs of this era, in turn, captured the lives, experiences, desires, and aspirations of the working class, reflecting the socio-economic realities of ordinary people. The populist characteristics of these chansons are evident in their realistic portrayals of the impoverished and difficult lives of the lower classes in an unstable post-war society, as well as in their expressions of yearning for love and freedom. Furthermore, the societal implications of rapid industrialization were also addressed. By investigating these populist features, this study demonstrates how chanson songs of the 1950s functioned as a form of social engagement, using artistic expression to reflect and critique the social issues of the time.