Leonard Cohen

Ahhhh. Another book of poetry from the late, great, Leonard Cohen. Absolutely, my favorite contemporary poet. This book is hard to get a hold of. It’s not in print anymore and pristine hardcovers are hundreds of dollars. Since we are quite a ways from his passing the paperback book prices have gone down: https://amzn.to/3Y1577B

I found this one for a little more than fifty dollars, but I’ve been watching for a book I could afford easily for probably five years. The pages are a little yellowed. But this was printed in 1973. It’s about a year younger than I am. So, over fifty years old.

I love all things Cohen, except long exposures to his music. I really only listen to the newest stuff he put out, and some of that he didn’t write. I have enough negative energy naturally floating around, I don’t need help getting into the thick of somber moods.

However, his poetry is something else! It rolls around in your mind, touching places you thought were private. Unfurling like some fabulous flower. Opening, into complex new sensations of old memories, life’s texture and reality’s indescribable beauty. You will cherish the times Cohen sneaks behind the walls you hold up to the world. And you will long for his next unexpected ambush appearance.

I’m honestly addicted to his ability to stealthily get behind your warring front lines, suddenly come up behind you, surprise you, and hand you a daisy. The man was uniquely gifted.

An incredibly deep observer of life. He’s surprisingly touching and gentle. He breaks all the rules to get inside those places you hide (even from your closest friends), and you are grateful for it.

I am expecting to fully immerse myself in this book. Slowly sinking deeper into the pool of Cohen’s mind. It’s one of his earlier works. I can’t wait to meet this gentleman’s more youthful, tangled, view of the language sunsets I always seem to end up sharing with him.

Here’s to Leonard Cohen! I’ll meet up with you, and we’ll discuss the impression this gifted poet left on this world, for us to enjoy.

Crazy Green Thumbs