The composer, Bizet, was born and raised in France, but this opera was based on a story of Gypsy love that took place in Spain. As a French composer, Bizet used exoticism to evoke the atmosphere, magic, and colour of Spain in this opera. The melody of the Habanera is incredibly well known and is filled with Spanish flavour. The lyrics "l'amour est un oiseau rebelle" means that love is a rebellious bird. Through it lyrics, Bizet tells the story of the love that occurred between a cigarette girl, Carmen, and soldier, Don Jose.
Not only is this opera revived through recreation of opera, but also through ballets and instrumental performances.