I just watched The Exorcist — which I assume I will write about later today. The film is unrelentingly serious and bleak. So I think I owe myself the treat of something of ultimate beauty and happiness. And nothing makes me happier than listening to Édith Piaf — even if there is a current in her work that soon the music will stop and we will all die.

Here is “L’Accordeoniste,” which, admittedly is not a happy song. But it is beautiful and poignant. If you prefer, you can listen to “La Vie en Rose” or “Non, Je ne Regrette Rien.” Otherwise enjoy this song about a prostitute who forgets her troubles while listening to your accordionist husband play — until he is sent off to war and killed.