: The German version was released on the CBS label in late 1971 and early 1972.
: The setting is often described as a carnival or Mardi Gras, a time of costumes and hidden identities. Chart and Commercial Impact
: It explores the concept of the "smiling mask," where the narrator dances and sings through the streets to hide his own feelings while trying to make others laugh.
The lyrics evoke the classic "Commedia dell'arte" imagery of the Harlequin and Columbine:
: It reached high positions on the charts in Germany and the Netherlands , solidifying Gérard's status as a major European pop star following his breakthrough the previous year.