The Legendary Love Story Of Jane Birkin And Serge Gainsbourg

Love stories have always fascinated us, especially when they involve iconic figures who leave a lasting impact. One such story is that of Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg, a legendary couple who captivated the world with their undeniable chemistry, artistic collaborations, and a scandalous ballad that still echoes today.

A Fateful Encounter

It all began in 1968 when Jane Birkin, an English actress and singer, crossed paths with Serge Gainsbourg, a groundbreaking French singer-songwriter and poet. Their first meeting on the set of the film "Slogan" sparked an immediate connection that would change their lives forever.

Jane, with her doe eyes, tousled hair, and unmistakable English charm, quickly became captivated by Gainsbourg's intense persona and immense talent. Similarly, Gainsbourg, a charismatic and enigmatic figure known for pushing boundaries within the music industry, was drawn to Jane's free-spirited nature and unique beauty.

Je t’aime: The legendary love story of Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg

by Véronique Mortaigne (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5520 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	188 pages
Paperback	:	148 pages
Item Weight	:	1.11 pounds

FREE

An Unconventional Love

From the outside, Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg appeared to be an unconventional couple. Their love was unconventional, their art was unconventional, and their public image fueled controversy and intrigue. Yet, through it all, their bond remained unbreakable and their love story continued to evolve.

Together, they challenged societal norms with their provocative public displays of affection, which often pushed the boundaries of acceptable behavior. Their unorthodox approach to love and life became a defining characteristic of their relationship, setting them apart from traditional couples of their time.

The Iconic "Je t'aime... moi non plus"

One of the most significant chapters of Birkin and Gainsbourg's love story is the creation of the now-iconic song "Je t'aime... moi non plus." Originally written for Brigitte Bardot, Gainsbourg decided to record the sensual duet with Birkin instead, amplifying their already intense connection.

The song's explicit lyrics and Birkin's breathy vocals caused a widespread scandal upon its release in 1969, leading to bans and controversy in several countries. Nevertheless, it became an international sensation and a symbol of their passionate and tumultuous relationship.

Collaborating in Life and Art

Aside from their love affair, Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg collaborated artistically on multiple occasions. They starred together in the critically acclaimed film "Je t'aime moi non plus" directed by Gainsbourg himself. Their on-screen chemistry mirrored their real-life intimacy, creating a raw and haunting portrayal of desire.

Furthermore, Birkin and Gainsbourg's musical collaborations left an indelible mark on the music industry. They released albums together and mesmerized audiences with their joint performances, showcasing a unique blend of their individual talents and creative synergy.

A Tragic Ending

As with many intense love stories, Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg's relationship faced its share of challenges. The couple eventually separated in 1980, marking the end of their romantic journey together. However, their love story remained etched in the pages of history, forever remembered as a glimpse into the tumultuous and passionate world they once inhabited.

A Legacy That Lives On

Although their romantic love story may have ended, the legacy of Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg continues to inspire and resonate with admirers around the globe. Their artistic contributions, rebellious spirit, and unapologetic outlook on life continue to captivate new generations.

In , the love story of Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg transcended societal conventions, leaving an enduring mark on the world of art, music, and the pursuit of unconventional love. Their unbreakable bond, artistic collaborations, and scandalous ballad "Je t'aime... moi non plus" will forever be remembered as a testament to the power of passion and the allure of eternal love.

Je t’aime: The legendary love story of Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg

by Véronique Mortaigne (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5520 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	188 pages
Paperback	:	148 pages
Item Weight	:	1.11 pounds

FREE

BBC RADIO 4 BOOK OF THE WEEK 18-22nd FEBRUARY 2019

Marking the 50-year anniversary of the legendary banned song Je t’aime… moi non plus, Véronique Mortaigne’s brilliantly-written book skilfully identifies the pairing of Gainsbourg and Birkin as an expression of the spirit of the age.
 

Synonymous with love, eroticism, glamour, music, provocation, their affair would set France aflame as the sixties ebbed, and set in motion many of the ideas we have by now come to think of as specifically ‘French’. 

Skipping back and forth in time, Je t'aime takes the reader from the foggy Normandy landscapes where Serge and Jane retreated, to their carefree summers on the coast. En route to their superstardom in films and music, we experience their intrigues, triangular relationships, and jealous rages, the genius and the self-torture.
 

Tenderly told, via new interviews with key players in their story, Je t'aime details the coming together of two massive personalities, who together created a model of the rebel couple for the ages.