Poets – Double Mirage

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Leonard Cohen

Born 1934 - Died 2016

Leonard Cohen was a multifaceted artist—poet, singer-songwriter, and novelist—born on September 21, 1934, in Montreal, Canada. His life journey was an intricate tapestry of literature, spirituality, and music, deeply influenced by his Jewish upbringing.

Cohen began his artistic career as a poet and novelist, gaining recognition for his poetry collections such as “Let Us Compare Mythologies” (1956) and “The Spice-Box of Earth” (1961). His literary pursuits paved the way for his musical aspirations.

In the late 1960s, Cohen transitioned into music, guided by his distinctive deep voice and introspective lyrics. His debut album, “Songs of Leonard Cohen” (1967), showcased his poetic prowess and established him as a unique voice in the folk music scene. Songs like “Suzanne” and “So Long, Marianne” became enduring classics, renowned for their evocative storytelling and emotional depth.

Throughout the following decades, Cohen’s music continued to evolve, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and the human condition. Albums like “Songs of Love and Hate” (1971), “I’m Your Man” (1988), and “You Want It Darker” (2016) displayed his versatility and lyrical mastery.

Beyond his music, Cohen’s life was marked by periods of spiritual exploration, including time at a Zen monastery in the mid-1990s. He delved into themes of spirituality and transcendence, which often surfaced in his later works.

His live performances were revered for their intimacy and emotional resonance, showcasing his deep connection with his audience. Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” arguably his most famous song, achieved widespread recognition and has been covered by numerous artists, becoming an anthem of emotional depth and contemplation.

Cohen’s career spanned over five decades, earning him numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His contributions to music and literature solidified his place as a revered and influential figure in the artistic world. Cohen passed away on November 7, 2016, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences globally.

Playlist

4 Videos

What Happens to the Heart

1:05

You Want it Darker

28:27

McCabe and Mrs Miller

1:48

Leonard Cohen Playlist

Songs of Leonard Cohen Review by Mark Deming
At a time when a growing number of pop songwriters were embracing a more explicitly poetic approach in their lyrics, the 1967 debut album from Leonard Cohen introduced a songwriter who, rather than being inspired by "serious" literature, took up music after establishing himself as a published author and poet. The ten songs on Songs of Leonard Cohen were certainly beautifully constructed, artful in a way few (if any) other lyricists would approach for some time

I’m Your Man (1988) — This was the first Leonard Cohen album that I really got into. After a decade of listening to this album, I still love the songs. Regardless, “Everybody Knows”, “First We Take Manhattan” and “I’m Your Man” are three of the coolest songs imaginable.

The Deadly Certainty of Leonard Cohen You Want It Darker gravely and beautifully accepts God and mortality.
Written down, the words “you want it darker” could read like a question or an accusation. From Leonard Cohen, they’re a simple statement of fact, no judgement implied. You might say he delivers the title of his album and its opening track in a mutter if Cohen’s voice were capable of a mutter—82 years of living have weathered his instrument into something wholly unique and whose low, low rumble makes every word into a pronouncement. The “you” who wants it darker is God, and Cohen’s figured out his plan.