Last updated on April 3, 2017
There are writers and there are poets and then there was Leonard Cohen, who I think was absolutely brilliant. Most of us know his song “Halleluja” and while it’s beautiful I always thought that “The Window” is one of Cohen‟s most compelling songs.
Cohen’s songs and poems are sometimes written from the point of view of a soul feeling lost and wishing to come in contact with an ultimate reality. The content is spiritual.
The window is open to a reality beyond this world, beyond death, bringing light for those willing to see it. It criticizes those who pray dutifully but meaninglessly, afraid of an unexpected vision that might rattle their secure world. The light, when coming through the window to such people, rather than uplift them, turns them into stone, killing love, causing even the heart of god to freeze.
“The Window”, in my opinion, was written by Cohen as a reflection of his spiritual quest. It’s an appeal to all people to live rather than stand at the window, watching the endless parade of possibility. It’s an appeal to go out into an unknown and terrifying future rather than starving slowly.
“The Window” by Leonard Cohen
Why do you stand by the window
Abandoned to beauty and pride
The thorn of the night in your bosom
The spear of the age in your side
Lost in the rages of fragrance
Lost in the rags of remorse
Lost in the waves of a sickness
That loosens the high silver nerves
Oh chosen love, Oh frozen love
Oh tangle of matter and ghost
Oh darling of angels, demons and saints
And the whole broken-hearted host
Gentle this soul
And come forth from the cloud of unknowing
And kiss the cheek of the moon
The New Jerusalem glowing
Why tarry all night in the ruin
And leave no word of discomfort
And leave no observer to mourn
But climb on your tears and be silent
Like a rose on its ladder of thorns
Oh chosen love, Oh frozen love
Then lay your rose on the fire
The fire give up to the sun
The sun give over to splendour
In the arms of the high holy one
For the holy one dreams of a letter
Dreams of a letter’s death
Oh bless thee continuous stutter
Of the word being made into flesh
Oh chosen love, Oh frozen love
Gentle this soul
A-song-a-day-challenge:
The rules for this challenge are simple. You post some of your favorite song lyrics for five days in a row, preferably with a video -if available. Then, you think about two bloggers who have pissed you off lately, and nominate them to participate as well. Just kidding! The chosen ones then have the choice and can take part -if they wish- or crush my little heart.
I nominate: I have no idea who to nominate. Why don’t you just play along if you feel like it?
[…] to that, I came across this wonderful post from ~ The Happy Quitter ~. Another compelling reflection on spiritual growth and faith! Click on the link and visit her […]
Wonderful song Bridget- I am catching up on reading and enjoying your music choices!!
Love this song!
I am glad.
Beautiful song, Bridget. Cohen was truly a genius. Thanks for the lovely listen. 🙂
Thank you for listening.
I love this song, as well! Incredible…
Good!
🙂
He should have been given the Nobel prize, not Dylan!
I agree! While Dylan is a good poet, Cohen was the master.
Now you are in my zone. I know the Leonard Cohen of the 60s off by heart and have had arguments with others about whether he was a poet or not. I didn’t know this one at all. I could do without the angelic choirs, but the voice and the writing still go straight to the spot.
So, what is your opinion? Was is a poet or not?
I knew Leonard Cohen, had heard his songs but not of course, they didn’t make any sense if you don’t understand the language. In the early 80’s I learned English with him and let me tell you, translating his songs…that’s a bitch. 🙂
He’s a poet. His use of language is complex and original. People have a false idea that if something is popular (i.e. liked by ordinary people) , it can’t be sufficiently serious and good. Translating poetry is always more complex than prose, because there are layers of meaning and the actual sounds of the words matter too.
It’s like Joanne said, he was smart when he decided to transform his poetry into songs. I just love him.
I LOVE Leonard Cohen!!! You can tell from his voice that this was recorded a long time ago. He made a brilliant decision early in his career to put his poetry put to music. It elevates its haunting beauty.
I always felt that Leonard Cohen deserved the Nobel Prize.
You and me and many others. 🙂
Beautiful choice, Lovely Song and excellent lyrics.. Have a wonderful weekend Bridget. <3
Have a great weekend as well. I hope the weather is nicer where you are.
Its April Showers.. but mild.. 🙂 xxx Take care.. xxx