Confrontation is a song from Les Misérables, sung by the characters of Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert.
Lyrics[]
JAVERT
Valjean, at last,
We see each other plain
“M'sieur le Mayor,”
You'll wear a different chain!
VALJEAN
Before you say another word, Javert
Before you chain me up like a slave again
Listen to me! There is something I must do.
This woman leaves behind a suffering child.
There is none but me who can intercede,
In Mercy's name, three days are all I need.
Then I'll return, I pledge my word.
Then I'll return...
JAVERT
You must think me mad!
I've hunted you across the years
A man like you can never change
A man such as you.
VALJEAN (in counterpoint)
Believe of me what you will
There is a duty that I'm sworn to do
You know nothing of my life
All I did was steal some bread
You know nothing of the world
You would sooner see me dead
But not before I see this justice done
I am warning you Javert
I'm a stronger man by far
There is power in me yet
My race is not yet run
I am warning you Javert
There is nothing I won't dare
If I have to kill you here
I'll do what must be done!
JAVERT (in counterpoint)
Men like me can never change
Men like you can never change
No, 24601
My duty's to the law— you have no rights
Come with me 24601
Now the wheel has turned around
Jean Valjean is nothing now
Dare you talk to me of crime
And the price you had to pay
Every man is born in sin
Every man must choose his way
You know nothing of Javert
I was born inside a jail
I was born with scum like you
I am from the gutter too!
VALJEAN (to Fantine’s body)
And this I swear to you tonight
JAVERT (to Valjean)
There is no place for you to hide
VALJEAN
Your child will live within my care
JAVERT
Wherever you may hide away
VALJEAN
And I will raise her to the light.
VALJEAN AND JAVERT
I swear to you, I will be there!