The Godfather of Gloom…

"Like a bird on the wire, like a drunk in a choir.
I have tried, in my way to be free." -- Leonard Cohen

The Godfather of Gloom…

As lost as us all,
learning from scratch,
his sad introspection --
heartfelt misery to match.

A poet of pessimism
who felt our pain,
invaded our memories,
a true lack of disdain.

The wisdom of his words
pierced our aching souls,
speaking to the wounds
that haunt and control.

Transcending generations
enriching our lives,
willing to dare --
despite such despair.

Impossible perfection
dwelled in his mind,
retrospection and anguish
a look back in time.

The sense of himself
tainted his tone,
nuance and meaning
but still so alone.

Understanding the heart
the coldness of love,
stroking our egos
knelling in the dark.

High courtesy and charm
a true ladies man,
intimate and consoling
were the weight of his words.

He sang to our spirit
and never-ending doom,
danced with our shadows
…the godfather of gloom.


Below is a letter penned by Mr. Cohen.., when he was informed that Marianne (So Long, Marianne), probably the love of his life, was dying of cancer and did not have much time left. Comforting her with his words, like no--one else could… Not only was Leonard Cohen a very special and unique artist.., he was a man, that walked the walk and talked the talk -- a special kind of man...

"Well Marianne, it’s come to this time when we are really so old and our bodies are falling apart and I think I will follow you very soon. Know that I am so close behind you that if you stretch out your hand, I think you can reach mine. And you know that I’ve always loved you for your beauty and your wisdom, but I don’t need to say anything more about that because you know all about that. But now, I just want to wish you a very good journey. Goodbye old friend. Endless love, see you down the road."

So long, Leonard...


Image Source: 1