Leonard Norman Cohen CC GOQ (September 21, 1934 – November 7, 2016) was a C… Read Full Bio ↴Leonard Norman Cohen CC GOQ (September 21, 1934 – November 7, 2016) was a Canadian songwriter poet, singer, and novelist. His work explored religion, politics, isolation, sexuality, and romantic relationships. Cohen was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was invested as a Companion of the Order of Canada, the nation's highest civilian honour. In 2011, Cohen received one of the Prince of Asturias Awards for literature and the ninth Glenn Gould Prize.

Cohen pursued a career as a poet and novelist during the 1950s and early 1960s; he did not launch a music career until 1967, at the age of 33. His first album, Songs of Leonard Cohen (1967), was followed by three more albums of folk music: Songs from a Room (1969), Songs of Love and Hate (1971) and New Skin for the Old Ceremony (1974). His 1977 record Death of a Ladies' Man, co-written and produced by Phil Spector, was a move away from Cohen's previous minimalist sound. In 1979, Cohen returned with the more traditional Recent Songs, which blended his acoustic style with jazz, Oriental, and Mediterranean influences. Perhaps Cohen's most famous song, "Hallelujah", was first released on his studio album Various Positions in 1984. I'm Your Man in 1988 marked Cohen's turn to synthesized productions and remains his most popular album. In 1992, Cohen released its follow-up, The Future, which had dark lyrics and references to political and social unrest.

Cohen returned to music in 2001 with the release of Ten New Songs, which was a major hit in Canada and Europe. His 11th album, Dear Heather, followed in 2004. Following a successful string of tours between 2008 and 2013, Cohen released three albums in the final four years of his life: Old Ideas (2012), Popular Problems (2014) and You Want It Darker (2016), the last of which was released three weeks before his death.

Leonard Cohen was born into a middle-class Jewish family in Westmount, Quebec, on September 21, 1934. His Lithuanian mother, Marsha Klonitsky ("Masha"; 1905–1978), was the daughter of a Talmudic writer, Rabbi Solomon Klonitsky-Kline, and emigrated to Canada in 1927. His paternal grandfather, whose family had moved from Poland to Canada, was Lyon Cohen, the founding president of the Canadian Jewish Congress. His father, Nathan Bernard Cohen (1891–1943), who owned a substantial clothing store, died when Cohen was nine years old. The family observed Orthodox Judaism, and belonged to Congregation Shaar Hashomayim, to which Cohen retained connections for the rest of his life. On the topic of being a Kohen, Cohen told Richard Goldstein in 1967, "I had a very Messianic childhood. I was told I was a descendant of Aaron, the high priest."

Cohen attended Roslyn Elementary School and completed grades seven through nine at Herzliah High School, where his literary mentor Irving Layton taught, then transferred in 1948 to Westmount High School, where he studied music and poetry. He became especially interested in the poetry of Federico García Lorca. Cohen involved himself actively beyond Westmount's curriculum, in photography, on the yearbook staff, as a cheerleader, in the arts and current events clubs, and even served in the position of president of the Students' Council while "heavily involved in the school's theater program". During that time, Cohen taught himself to play the acoustic guitar, and formed a country–folk group that he called the Buckskin Boys. After a young Spanish guitar player taught him "a few chords and some flamenco", Cohen switched to a classical guitar. He has attributed his love of music to his mother, who sang songs around the house: "I know that those changes, those melodies, touched me very much. She would sing with us when I took my guitar to a restaurant with some friends; my mother would come, and we'd often sing all night.

Cohen frequented Saint Laurent Boulevard for fun and ate at such places as the Main Deli Steak House. According to journalist David Sax, Cohen and one of his cousins would go to the Main Deli to "watch the gangsters, pimps, and wrestlers dance around the night". Cohen enjoyed the formerly raucous bars of Old Montreal as well as Saint Joseph's Oratory, which had the restaurant nearest to Westmount, for him and his friend Mort Rosengarten to share coffee and cigarettes. When Cohen left Westmount, he purchased a place on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, in the previously working-class neighbourhood of Little Portugal. He would read his poetry at assorted nearby clubs. In that period and that place, Cohen wrote the lyrics to some of his most famous songs.

Take This Waltz
Leonard Cohen Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Now in Vienna there are ten pretty women
There's a shoulder where Death comes to cry
There's a lobby with nine hundred windows
There's a tree where the doves go to die
There's a piece that was torn from the morning
And it hangs in the Gallery of Frost

Aey, aey, aey, aey

Take this waltz, take this waltz
Take this waltz with the clamp on its jaws

Oh, I want you, I want you, I want you
On a chair with a dead magazine
In the cave at the tip of the lilly
In some hallway where love's never been
On a bed where the moon has been sweating
In a cry filled with footsteps and sand

Aey, aey, aey, aey
Take this waltz, take this waltz
Take its broken waist in your hand

This waltz, this waltz, this waltz, this waltz
With its very own breath of brandy and Death
Dragging its tail in the sea

There's a concert hall in Vienna
Where your mouth had a thousand reviews
There's a bar where the boys have stopped talking
They've been sentenced to death by the blues
Ah, but who is it climbs to your picture
With a garland of freshly cut tears?

Aey, aey, aey, aey
Take this waltz, take this waltz
Take this waltz, it's been dying for years

There's an attic where children are playing
Where I've got to lie down with you soon
In a dream of Hungarian lanterns
In the mist of some sweet afternoon
And I'll see what you've chained to your sorrow
All your sheep and your lillies of snow

Aey, aey, aey, aey
Take this waltz, take this waltz
With its "I'll never forget you, you know"

This waltz, this waltz, this waltz, this waltz
With its very own breath of brandy and Death
Dragging its tail in the sea

And I'll dance with you in Vienna
I'll be wearing a river's disguise
The hyacinth wild on my shoulder
My mouth on the dew of your thighs
And I'll bury my soul in a scrapbook
With the photographs there, and the moss
And I'll yield to the flood of your beauty
My cheap violin and my cross
And you'll carry me down on your dancing
To the pools that you lift on your wrist
Oh my love, oh my love
Take this waltz, take this waltz
It's yours now, it's all that there is

(La-la-la, la-la-la)
(La-la-la, la-la-la)
(La-la-la, la-la-la)
(La-la-la, la-la-la)
(La-la-la, la-la-la)

(La-la-la, la-la-la)
(Aey, aey, aey, aey)

Overall Meaning

Leonard Cohen's "Take This Waltz" is a romantic and melancholic song that discusses a couple's memories and experiences in Vienna. The song is full of vivid imagery, with the theme of love and death running throughout. The first verse describes the beauty of Vienna, from the ten pretty women to the tree where doves go to die. The line "there's a shoulder where Death comes to cry" alludes to the idea that death is an ever-present force in life, even in the midst of beauty.

The second verse is more personal, with the singer expressing a desire for his lover. He wants her "on a chair with a dead magazine" or "on a bed where the moon has been sweating." These images are both intimate and surreal, capturing the feeling of being lost in a moment with someone you love. The line "take this waltz with the clamp on its jaws" suggests that the dance itself is a metaphor for something more profound, perhaps the pain of love or the inevitability of death.

The tone shifts in the final verse, which is more hopeful and joyful. The singer imagines dancing with his lover in Vienna, wearing a "river's disguise" and experiencing the beauty and passion of the moment. The song ends with the plea "take this waltz, take this waltz, it's yours now, it's all that there is," suggesting that love and the memories it creates are the only things that truly matter.

Line by Line Meaning

Now in Vienna there are ten pretty women
Vienna is a city of elegance and beauty with lovely women all around.

There's a shoulder where Death comes to cry
In Vienna, there is a place which is the site of mourning.

There's a lobby with nine hundred windows
There is a place full of possibilities and opportunities with abundant chances.

There's a tree where the doves go to die
A place which is a symbol of death and mourning.

There's a piece that was torn from the morning
A section which represents the pain and brokenness of time.

And it hangs in the Gallery of Frost
This fragment now resides in a very cold, museum-like place where it can be observed and analyzed.

Aey, aey, aey, aey
An exclamation prompted by the implied emotional complexity surrounding these places and experiences.

Take this waltz, take this waltz
The singer invites the listener to participate in this dance, to experience these emotions with him.

Take this waltz with the clamp on its jaws
This dance is intricate and sad, with the beauty of the waltz unable to escape its mournful nature.

Oh, I want you, I want you, I want you
The singer desires the listener's emotional investment in this experience, to share in the sadness and beauty he sings about.

On a chair with a dead magazine
The setting of this experience is in a bleak place, surrounded by loss and sorrow.

In the cave at the tip of the lily
This is a place of beauty and fragility that is hidden and unknown.

In some hallway where love's never been
A place that has never experienced love or joy and is unfamiliar to such tenderness.

On a bed where the moon has been sweating
This description alludes to a place of intense passion and love but also makes an obscure reference to some innate sorrow.

In a cry filled with footsteps and sand
The pain present within the singer's past that adds to the sorrow of his relationship.

Take its broken waist in your hand
Despite the difficulties within this situation, the singer invites the listener to embrace this broken beauty and take it all in.

This waltz, this waltz, this waltz, this waltz
Each repetition emphasizes the necessity to absorb and experience this dance and all its melancholy beauty.

With its very own breath of brandy and Death
This experience has a bitter-sweet quality, one that is both exhilarating and depressing at the same time.

Dragging its tail in the sea
The waltz is a powerful emotional force that can never be truly silenced or forgotten.

There's a concert hall in Vienna
A place of cultural significance and importance, where talent and creativity are celebrated and appreciated.

Where your mouth had a thousand reviews
Suggests the recipient of the song has been vocal and expressive, has enjoyed moments in life where creativity is at the forefront.

There's a bar where the boys have stopped talking
A sad, lonely place where the energy, chatter, and camaraderie of young men has been replaced, suggesting loss and passing of time.

They've been sentenced to death by the blues
The blues, a genre of deep sorrow, dominates and ultimately destroys the energy, passion, and vitality found in youth.

Ah, but who is it climbs to your picture
A question about who or what can really know and understand all that is said and felt within the heart of the recipient of the song.

With a garland of freshly cut tears?
Perhaps a reference to death and the sorrow that surrounds it or the ultimate sadness that comes from the passing of a soul within a community.

Take this waltz, take this waltz
The desire to experience and connect the suffering felt by all humans.

Take this waltz, it's been dying for years
Emphasizes the bitterness and sorrow present in this dance, suggesting it has been forgotten and ignored over time.

There's an attic where children are playing
A place of innocence, youthful enjoyment, and lightness of spirit.

Where I've got to lie down with you soon
Being able to embrace and cuddle the recipient of the song is the only way to save oneself from the darkness of melancholy.

In a dream of Hungarian lanterns
A dreamy and romantic place, filled with the lightness of the soul and the joy of life.

In the mist of some sweet afternoon
A time of day where things can be mysterious and bewildering yet still filled with hope.

And I'll see what you've chained to your sorrow
A heartfelt attempt to discover what pain and hurt the recipient of the song holds within.

All your sheep and your lilies of snow
The naturally lovely elements of life that the recipient of the song uses to shield herself/himself from hurt feel fragile and breakable.

With its 'I'll never forget you, you know'
The importance of never forgetting what one has experienced or what has shaped one's life.

This waltz, this waltz, this waltz, this waltz
A repeated cue to continue experiencing the beauty and sorrow of the dance until it is fully understood.

With its very own breath of brandy and Death
The conflicting nature of the emotional experience within the song, which is both bitter and sweet at the same time.

Dragging its tail in the sea
The singer emphasizes the strength of the emotions represented in the dance, suggesting they are too powerful not to be caught up in all aspects of one's life.

And I'll dance with you in Vienna
A moment of potential joy and bliss between the singer and the recipient of the song.

I'll be wearing a river's disguise
An imaginative way of referencing both the flow of emotions and the deep reflection that has preceded the dance.

The hyacinth wild on my shoulder
A symbol of passion and beauty that has taken on a life of its own.

My mouth on the dew of your thighs
An intimate moment between the singer and the listener, felt with sensuality and desire.

And I'll bury my soul in a scrapbook
A reference to preserving the past within one's heart, keeping memories clear and vivid.

With the photographs there, and the moss
The beauty of nature and the memories of the past, entwined into a cherished keepsake.

And I'll yield to the flood of your beauty
Complete surrender of one's self to another's beauty, in awe and admiration.

My cheap violin and my cross
A symbol of the singer's deep faith and meager possessions, but which have still led to a profound connection with the recipient of the song.

And you'll carry me down on your dancing
Symbolizes the great trust between the two individuals.

To the pools that you lift on your wrist
A metaphor for the experiences that the recipient of the song brings to the singer, which enrich and enliven his life.

Oh my love, oh my love
An evocative repetition, capturing the depths of the singer's emotions and affection for the listener.

Take this waltz, take this waltz
The singer's plea to hold onto this dance and experience it for all eternity.

It's yours now, it's all that there is
The dance has fully infused and taken over the lives of these individuals; it is a powerful, meaningful connection that cannot be escaped or forgotten.

(La-la-la, la-la-la)
A simple, heartfelt musical refrain that captures the beauty and simplicity of the moment.

(Aey, aey, aey, aey)
A meditative exclamation, acknowledging once again how profound and complex these emotions are.

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Garcia Lorca, Leonard Cohen

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

TRACKS

Genre not found

Artist not found

Album not found

Search results not found

Song not found

Most interesting comments from YouTube:

@mariasmiakowska5068

2y↑10

Now in Vienna there's ten pretty women
There's a shoulder where death comes to cry
There's a lobby with nine hundred windows
There's a tree where the doves go to die
There's a piece that was torn from the morning
And it hangs in theGallery of Frost

Aey, aey, aey, aey
Take this waltz, take this waltz
Take this waltz with the clamp on its jaws

Oh I want you, I want you, I want you
On a chair with a dead magazine
In the cave at the tip of the lily
In some hallway where love's never been
On a bed where the moon has been sweating
In a cry filled with footsteps and sand

Aey, aey, aey, aey
Take this waltz, take this waltz
Take its broken waist in your hand
This waltz, this waltz, this waltz, this waltz
With its very own breath of brandy and death
Dragging its tail in the sea

There's a concert hall in Vienna
Where your mouth had a thousand reviews
There's a bar where the boys have stopped talking
They've been sentenced to death by the blues
But who is it climbs to your picture
With a garland of freshly cut tears?

Aey, aey, aey, aey
Take this waltz, take this waltz
Take this waltz it's been dying for years

There's an attic where children are playing
Where I've got to lie down with you soon
In a dream of Hungarian lanterns
In the mist of some sweet afternoon
And I'll see what you've chained to your sorrow
All your sheep and your lilies of snow

Aey, aey, aey, aey
Take this waltz, take this waltz
With its, I'll never forget you, you know
This waltz, this waltz, this waltz, this waltz
With its very own breath of brandy and death
Dragging its tail in the sea

And I'll dance with you in Vienna
I'll be wearing a river's disguise
The hyacinth wild on my shoulder
My mouth on the dew of your thighs
And I'll bury my soul in a scrapbook
With the photographs there, and the moss
And I'll yield to the flood of your beauty
My cheap violin and my cross
And you'll carry me down on your dancing
To the pools that you lift on your wrist
Oh my love, oh my love
Take this waltz, take this waltz
It's yours now, it's all that there is
Aey, aey, aey, aey

@edwardbrackenborough1867

3y↑20

@Budahbaba
Firstly I am Marlene (female) For reasons best known to herself my granddaughter decided to put every item on my phone in my husband's name !! I really need to try and change it.
I too am Christian with some Jewish ancestry.
I am probably repeating myself, but I am totally mesmerized and bewitched by the 70 + year old Leonard Cohen.
I feel I can "read" the emotion in his soul during these late in life tour performances.
I find myself compelled to watch whilst I listen to him.
I thought he was a magnetic talent in his earlier years, but the stirring in my soul that his later genius brings on in me is uncanny.
I absolutely adore him and his amazing musical magic to a degree far above any earthly comprehension.
I bow/curtsey to his amazing,compelling musical genius and persona.
Marlene

All comments from YouTube:

@David-uy8ot

3y↑963

I assume many of you already know, but for those who don't: the lyrics of this incredibly beautiful song are based on a poem ("Pequeño vals vienés") by the Spanish poet Federico García Lorca, who was killed by the Fascists in 1936. Leonard Cohen was a big fan of Lorca's poetry.

@mouroy5738

2y↑36

And Cohen was deeply inspired by Lorca... ❤️

@tonyemmanuel554

2y↑41

Thank you so much for the information.

@jenniferforde8203

2y↑17

Thank-you

@DavidSmith-sf4dr

2y↑14

David thank you Mate, I’m gonna google that, and find out more. Ta Mate 👍

@tonyemmanuel554

2y↑5

@David Smith 👍

108 More Replies...

@jacksmack51

2y↑374

Notice the respect he shows for his band, and the respect they show him in return. Such class

@antungajovski5916

1y↑12

i never whithnesd more inspired introduction of a band. must be such a honour to play with him!

@VoyageChansons

1y↑4

@Antun Gajovski oui,mais là c'est lui la vedette

@HelenaSi

😅

@JohnJohansen2

1y↑4

He was the greatest! ❤
I so miss him.
Luckily I've got all his albums on LPs + a few pirate versions.
Now I've got to listen to them all over. 🥰

@LoraHari81

51w↑1

Always. I have been on two concerts, in Poland and in England. LEGEND ❤

3 More Replies...

@jimenabronfman6522

3y↑227

Leonard Cohen was one of a kind! I can't believe we don''t have him anymore. He was one of the best! I listen to his music often. It gives me great pleasure and I recognize him as the fantastic artist he was!!!!!!!!!

@sharondelfi177

2y↑3

Si avverte che e molto bella Non ho capito niente

@zofiamlynarz9692

Islam follows stupid .....................

@kathleenmcnamara1639

41w

take this shot

@user-vi9vp5fy6u

20w

I'm still dancing. You will never take this dance for it resides in heaven.

@EternalTina

42w↑41

I was lucky enough to attend several of Mr. Cohen's later concerts. It was always great, but the "best" moment was always when he introduced everyone on stage. Sometimes not even on stage, but the light and sound people too. And he always did it with such grace and respect. The world was a little bit better with him in it.

@peterphillips3545

33w↑28

Unbelievably beautiful. Brings me to tears. He was a genius.

@carolbarker8488

33w↑1

Ditto from me .

@user-rb1rh5kh8t

17w

Merci , pour ces deux commentaires et où je partage la même intense et profonde émotion......BRINGS ME TO TEARS....... Merci Monsieur Cohen ❤❤❤!!!

@jamieholmes5443

3y↑195

To me this is the most beautiful song to have ever been sung by the greatest poet to have ever sung a poem. Backed by a humbleness that could tear a wall down.

@helenapestana5206

2y↑3

Ele foi o melhor e mais sensual.! Fiquei maravilhada qd o ouvi a primeira vez e nunca mais parei! Ele é único e encantador!!!

@andyjamesable

2y↑8

I wanted to pass a comment here but no point as you have said it all .. !

@mariaflo7211

You should go and listen to Silvia Pérez Cruz - Pequeño Vals Vienes

@zofiamlynarz9692

Islam follows idiots?????????????????????????/

@michelearlen7963

1y↑3

J'adore Léonard Cohen.

3 More Replies...

@PhantomLAM

2y↑33

I love how much he adores what he is doing, the amount of love he showers everyone with during and after the songs closure is sublime and endearing. R.I.P. Leonard your voice carries me and many others to places we rarely get to go. 🖤

@sophiar6996

1y↑17

I'm in my 50's and just discovered this amazing man! That voice, OMG!!!! I can't believe I missed his beautiful music all my life. WOW, this man had it in spades. R.I.P. Leonard, thank you for the beautiful music! ~♥~

@paga123

26w↑2

Personnaly I discovered him really when he died and I was 60 years old 😊
Before, I was knowing only Suzanne which I never love much and I love now all her songs.

@midianpoet

15w↑1

Exactly the same, EXACTLY. Amazing Waltz with Leonard.

@shariblack4128

27w↑18

Speechless . . . Almost never happens . . . I am a sucker for a waltz, a lover of wonderful instrumentals and vocals, and hypnotically attracted to poetry that moves my soul . This checks all the boxes.❤❤

@shariblack4128

26w↑1

Love will find a way. 🙏

@shariblack4128

22w

Still praying for that 🙏

@juancarloslaravidal6490

2y↑39

Que maravilla, directo al corazón. Un maestro insuperable. Voz, melodía, poesía repleta de humanidad. Descansa en paz Leonard, nuestros corazones jamás te olvidarán.

@dm4859

2y↑8

I can't imagine what it would have been like to know this man personally. What a gift he was and still is.

@petermaarschalkerwee

1y↑59

After 50 years, his music and voice still moves me.

@LoraHari81

34w

Met him being 14. I'm 42 now. What a man ❤

@maureenwiggins6828

23w↑1

Beautiful

@M_Ladd

3y↑27

And thank you Leonard for all the joy your music has given us! RIP.

@michalbartosz4878

40w↑38

We were damn lucky to have Leonard sing so many song for us. Even luckier those who got the absolute privilege to see him perform live. Peace Leonard.

@silvialeonruiz416

37w↑1

Era y será unico

@johnwirenius8152

15w↑1

So grateful I got to see him in New York City: he started a little bit late, but then did almost three full hours. He’d told us in the audience at the beginning that he was going to leave it all on the field. He kept his promise.

@michalbartosz4878

15w

@@johnwirenius8152 How wonderful! Couldn't be more jealous. And who plays for three hours these days!

@carolbarker8488

33w↑14

My love for this song never fades no matter how many times I hear it. R.I.P Leonard, there will never be anyone to match you xxx

@lifeofreilly9943

32w↑1

I feel exactly the same 💕

@swampsofhome

2y↑33

Loved the song and the performance but what struck me was what an honor it is (was) for the musicians to be introduced and honored by the words of this man. This would be the high point of any musician's career. Beautiful.

@nickhunt6581

2y↑28

Surely the most graceful and marvellous tribute to fellow musicians I will ever see. Today I have finally encountered Leonard Cohen, incomparable genius, for the first time.

@jeffreydimes742

34w↑11

Lovely song, lovely words, lovely man and what respect for his band and backing singers, my god you are missed and so wish i had come across you earlier and seen you live RIP Leonard sadly missed ❤❤

@dianehghzn7670

42w↑8

Such an awesome man with an awesome small group of geniuses to have made such an impact on the people who heard his music and incredibly gifted masters i dont know why it was so late in my life that i discovered him i cant imagine how this one wasnt the absolute top of my music and favourite singers and performers list but iam glad that i did in the last part of my life even though he had allready pasted i can say with all my heart ❤️ how i love this man and his music and band and very happy that i didnt miss him all together thankgod Rest in peace leanard and may the angels be singing with you in that most highest of realms of peace ☮️ love ❤️ and enlightenment and may you be in everyones hearts who love ❤️ you still

@marcgarcelon2927

4y↑30

A gorgeous and haunting song that has meant so much to me over the years. Bravo, Leonard, you are missed!

@jbuntine1255

3y↑1

Greatly

@infoguitar

3y↑37

If there was just a sound I'd be able to listen to for the rest of eternity, it would be his voice.

@anisenkolkata

4y↑92

What a composition! It gives me goosebumps! Such modesty such grace....and that baritone! Salute to the legend... loved his introduction of the group at the end..that's how gentlemen are!!!

@jarq9728

2y↑29

Leonard Cohen es irrepetible, su elegancia, su sencillez, su sobria y limpia sonrisa, su voz profunda, su hondo sentimiento, sus coros, sus músicos... Leonard Cohen fue un magnífico y fecundo poeta, un compositor genial, un intérprete simpar y un ser humano UNICO. Adoraba y adoro sus canciones, me aportan tanto que estaré eternamente agradecido a este mensajero de meditaciones y reflexiones tan elevadas.
Gracias MAESTRO COHEN

@user-oc6tl5tb9j

Супер маэстро!

@douglasadams7225

2y↑9

What a magic! I will always cry inside because i've never been at one of your concert. You saved my heart many times in the past 15 years, thank you forever! Sara

@STEVE1MUSICMAN

1y↑2

I feel the same way

@spanishiseasy9334

5y↑313

I just discovered Leonard Cohen. What a synthesis of poetry, music, candor, chivalry, intelligence and beauty. Salve Maestro!

@sandrarose5128

5y↑6

Just awesome have you watched his interviews

@spanishiseasy9334

5y↑13

@Sandra Rose I saw and heard his speech upon receiving the Reina Sofia award. I was deeply moved and from there I went to look for his compositions. An extraordinary human being.

@michellefowlie9008

4y↑15

Just discovered! Oh my, what an amazing body of work he left for you to discover. I was born the year he released his first album, I grew up on his music, nearly as present as air in my life. Of course I appreciate it much more now than when I was a child. How different it would be to discover it all now. Blessings.

@dorisc8604

4y↑8

Read his books of poetry!

@jimgeorge2455

4y↑7

@Michelle Fowlie I grew up with it and then I turned around and he is getting old my that's does that mean I'm getting old too! Precious times I loved it

6 More Replies...

@kennethjacobus6541

3y↑16

Mr. Cohen is brilliant. I am in absolute awe of his talent and understanding.

@user-sf6nv1nx7v

3y↑62

Even the presentation of his musicians sounds like poetry.What a velvet great voice

@BABBOOBHUCHO

1y↑3

How generous he is to his band. What a wonderful way of acknowledging their masterful performances to complement his golden voice. Class.

@erikapoole1400

3y↑47

What a legend - cannot get enough of his wisdom- once in a lifetime

@liseholmsten3387

3y↑10

Wonderful man and singer!!! His songs will never die...

@francescafrancesca5125

5y↑752

Leonard Cohen was pure talent, class, charm, there will never be another one like him. His voice like velvet and his lyrics pure emotions. What a shame he's gone.

@tenajyebba

5y↑43

And all the PC feministas criticize him for all the women he laid. Wish I had been one.

@neildretzka3237

5y↑23

Francesca, I agree, except his voice was not like velvet. More like gravel in a cement mixer. But I love him. I want to sing and share some drinks with him in heaven some day. And we'll save a seat for Anthony Bourdain.

@patrickbenoot1576

4y↑8

incomparable

@aprilsmith8426

4y↑7

Totally agree with you.

@barbarapalmer8224

4y↑7

@Neil Dretzkal like your comments. 👍

37 More Replies...

@maria.delcarmenromeromilla73

3y↑4

La hermosa poesía de nuestro amado Federico García Lorca en la voz de este gran maestro Cohen. Una maravilla. El Federico más melancólico que Leonard supo sentir.

@user-ld4rb3ev9i

3y↑50

Вечная память,замечательному музыканту🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🌹❤️❤️❤️❤️💖

@staffanolofsson8201

3y↑43

This is quite a fantastic ending of a concert, and also a beautiful farewell of Leonard. This waltz continues into eternity with its "I´ll never forget you, you know". And out from the stage he walks.

@mariasmiakowska5068

2y↑10

@angeljavier-ii9fc

1y↑1

Ederra

@nevaklemenc1997

3y↑204

What a poet! His music is like immortal human being with all wonderful and painful gifts of love and beauty.

@mukhtarbahar5741

3y↑3

( NONSENSE ) NON IMMORTAL.

@nailyucelTornero

3y↑8

This is actually Federico Garcia Lorca’s poem “Little Viennese Waltz “ by Leonard Cohen , thanks to them both 👏👏👏

@frangonzalez2541

2y↑3

Yes, he is a great poet, but this song is a poem by Federico García Lorca

@gayaneagayan8580

2y↑3

Он ей дал жизнь . Они оба Гармоничны в этом . Спасибо большое . Прекрасно исполнено .

@lisacarralon5958

Mi ídolo ❤️❤️💎💎💎💎🎶🎶🎶

@Noelito40

3y↑16

His songs and delivery are emotion incarnated.

@bobnicholson4702

1y↑6

How can one put into words the genius of this man. A true master of his field, simply not better.

@joshuabrier7862

2y↑99

God, I wish I was there. The man's music truly plays to the soul. Unfortunately, I am 21 and discovered Leonards's music after his time. His music will live on through my generation and many others.

@sabinefolser7377

1y↑4

Ich bin sein Fan seit 50 Jahren und durfte einige Konzerte mit ihm erleben. Die besten, als er schon ein "alter Mann " war. Es ist toll, dass auch junge Menschen seine Musik lieben

@annamaria6183

@Sabine Fölser wie schön einen deutschen Kommentar zu Ehren dieses wundervollen Künstlers hier zu lesen. Er berührt die Seele mit seiner Musik und der Feinheit seines Wesens...mit 72 Lebensjahren höre ich ihn noch öfter als in jungen Jahren

@Robert-el2mf

1y↑2

@Sabine Fölser ich bin ein 20 jähriger ägypter ,der ihn vor 3 Jahren kennengelernt hat und man wie schön sind seine Lieder und wie emotional und passioniert er ist. Ich bin nur traurig dass ich jetzt nicht die Möglichkeit habe in seinem Konzert teilzunehmen aber was ich weiß ist, seine Lieder werden mit mir für immer leben.

@Robert-el2mf

1y↑3

Can totally relate with you bro , 20 years here. Used to listen to his dance me to the end love with my ex-girlfriend and she used to love it very much too, and continued listening to it long after her.
His songs bring me in an emotional state no other song can.
One thing is for sure tho, his songs will be played in my wedding,maybe the attendees will love his songs and even if smh they don’t,he and his songs have reserved the place already.
May his soul rest in peace

@philipopruesse4259

@Sabine Fölser das stimmt. Seine besten Lieder war nach 1990 geschrieben und seine allerbesten Lieder nachdem er über 65 war

3 More Replies...

@facesvideoproduction

4y↑50

Any word to describe Leonard Cohen will fall short , this man was out of this world . His lyrics and his music is simply magnificent

@user-me1jq7po8f

4y↑1

YES!

@PatriciaPeterson-uu3kk

23w

What more can be said - there no words in English💜

@javiercerro8269

17w↑1

Escuchar a Leonard es como entrar en una dimensión plena de sentimiento y sensibilidad difícil de definir por la forma en que te atrapa y no puedes abandonar

@magorzatakuzniak6663

4y↑14

Mój ukochany artysta. Na zawsze w moim sercu od kilkudziesięciu lat. Brakuje mi go jak powietrza 😢

@bozena3634

4y↑1

To prawda. Piękny głos 😊

@zbigniewbarczynski3436

Jest muzyka jest wieczny, i nie zapomniany nigdy

@marieelaineauguste767

2y↑39

I could say the same thing.I just discovered Leonard Cohen. What a voice!

@debbieteague9706

Me also

@rayhoward8188

AND ME ,RAY TWELVE STRINGS X

@lifeofreilly9943

1y↑34

The sweetness of each face being recognized by Leonard is
truly magical...What a beautiful gift he was to the world

@thomasa4578

1y↑19

We have always loved his poetic lyrics and music.There is such a symbiotic relationship with his band....What style

@user-wf5go1mh6v

4y↑54

КАК БЛАГОРОДНО, ЭТО ВОСПИТАНИЕ! За исполнение поклон ВАМ.

@timah9506

3y↑5

Его родители выходцы из России, еврейской национальности. Его мама пела ему в детстве русские песни (по его высказыванием).

@user-yy8xn8go4j

26w↑4

I just discovered Leonard Cohen… what a singer, with that distinct voice. Bravo!

@jasnajovanovic5940

2y↑13

Poezija za dusu...

@analuisapaulinomartins1525

4y↑31

O triângulo perfeito: letra,música e interpretação!

@blastfiendsunite420

2y↑33

What a beautiful being. You can feel the respect for his fellow musicians and the love he has for his art. Wow, just wow... Look at the way they look at him 😭

@sheilataylor9579

3y↑10

I’m so sad that I’ve missed out on knowing about this amazing singer/poetic man. Thankfully he leaves behind his music, poetry, and videos for his newest and upcoming fans. ❤️❤️❤️

@jbuntine1255

3y↑1

Sublime is Mr Cohen ..

@jesusmariaandressanchez6184

2y↑9

Maravillosa canción !!! Y un genio de la música y el sentimiento …. Siempre vivo Leonard !!!!!👌💫

@chrisrenner6610

3y↑13

Incredible. The respect everyone gives to one another is a special moment, thank you for sharing.

@user-wt5fw2qi3l

3y↑22

Великолепный певец......как и его песни.... Благодарю!

@natalienechukhayeva1360

4y↑58

Touching to tears. What a talent, what a heart. He wrote the songs which forever will be on the top of any parades. He really was blessed.

@darrenlund3835

2y↑12

I have loved 'I'm Your Man' since the day I bought it and rate it as one of my favourite albums. 'Take This Waltz' never ceases to amaze me with it's stunning lyrical imagery and I'm happy to learn today from David of the origins of the song. I only saw LC once at the awesome venue 'Waldbuhne' in Berlin but that very special evening will stay with me for a long time.

@lehrmandavid10

30w↑2

Big-hearted musical magician. What a moment as he shares an unbeatable song, you think what could top that? Than it is surpassed by his poetic and generous tribute to each and every band member. The sublime Webb sisters deserve a special shout out. Cohen's lyrics, so sensual, exquisitely harmonized by such youth and beauty remind us of how immortal his translation of the Lorca lines has become. A farewell to them, and perhaps to us, as well. RIP Leonard Cohen.

@joehoe222

3y↑41

I've never seen someone give honours to his musicians and singers so graceful as Cohen :)

@jesusmanuelcarmonaalgarrad4002

20w↑1

Increíble, bella ...amo esta canción...❤

@kevinlim244

2y↑15

The epitome of poetry, grace, artistry, and elegance. Beauty beyond words.

@leeraewi

4y↑25

I'm really touched that he chose to conclude this concert with this song. It was the first song I reached to when I heard of his passing. Incredible performance of an extraordinary song.

@miltonmonzonfreyre680

3y↑9

Es increíble este hombre como me gustan sus canciones y sin conocer su idioma pero me emociona igual su estilo . lástima que ya no esté con nosotros. Abrazo para todos desde Uruguay.

@edwardbrackenborough1867

3y↑292

I am totally mesmerized by Leonard. I am drawn to his senior self like a magnet. I am looking into his soul and he touches mine so tenderly and emotionally. I adore his voice and persona at this stage of his life.
He was unique in life and is everlasting in death. RIP Leonard Cohen
Marlene

@budahbaba7856

3y↑20

Edward, Leonard Cohen was one of those anomalies that he kept sounding better as he aged. I also bowed my knee to him publicly as a prophet. I am a Christian, he was a Jew, but he was the gate keeper of something from the Divine i sought.

@edwardbrackenborough1867

3y↑20

@katherinemorgan6254

3y↑12

I thought I had something to say, but this reply says it all for me. I do need to add that I just heard Hallelujah a few days ago and am now obsessed with finding out all I can about this man and his songs/poetry. Thank you Leonard.

@edwardbrackenborough1867

3y↑11

Hi there, I'm Marlene (not Eddie!!!) I am so thrilled that you liked my emotion about Mr Cohen in his latter years. It's difficult to explain in words how he moves me to feel. I see and feel a tenderness and holiness radiating from his face, and indeed his very presence. The lyrics of his songs are nothing short of poetic or factual beauty.
I am drawn to this bounteous presence like a moth to a flame. I can't stop watching and listening once I start.
I am of advancing years and reflect on death quite a bit. When I watch Leonard (the elder) I feel relaxed and comforted about passing. As I am watching, his physical being removes my fear of death. We all know that's what awaits us at the end of this journey called life. Thank you Mr Cohen for your comfort and enlightenment. I will hold it in my heart until I say "good bye" to flesh and blood.

@dmgiova3788

3y↑3

I agree, Marlene. A friend of mine back when I was about 16 was into his poetry and music. I was vaguely interested in him and remembered his song "Suzanne". Then I heard Hallelujah and I was in love. He just reminds me SO much as he aged in looks and eyes and smile of someone else who was a very dear friend.

16 More Replies...

@leatheraccessories646

1y↑2

Leonars Cohen, the musician who through his music could transform a tough man into a great romantic, the performer who knew how to intertwine the autumn leaves with the roses of May.
That poet who is able to sing to you and describe your death as the long-awaited bride and love as a leaf taken to dance by the winter wind.
The night sky is darker due to the loss of a star, as if there is more pain in the cry of the wind since he left, and the sea wipes its tears from the shore where the seagull fell.
Leonard, sing to the stars and the moon as only you know how to do it R.I.P. 💚

@crauldrachinasvladington6663

18w↑1

Goosebumps out of this world as he honors his band

@user-nu8iw8vr9e

4y↑42

Словами не передать.Слушала бы этот голос бесконечно.

@zofiamlynarz9692

Even Putin? You love him more than peace

@Bob-uh6gf

@Zofia Mlynarz Who mentioned Putin?

@gloryplemiashow6285

4y↑63

Отдыхаешь душой от его пения.

@anneiversen7670

3y↑4

Saw Leonard at his last Australian concert in Melbourne. A highlight of my life, as an older guy he did an amazing performance. Mesmerising. Never forget it. So glad I was able to go.

@difrancisga7279

3y↑7

Que magnifico gesto de carinho e respeito por seus colaboradores.👏🏼👏🏼😍🎶

@asgolden123

4y↑29

This awesome man was my teacher that I NEVER met. But he left his teachings behind for me to decide how and when he can teach me and yes, it sporadic but always fruitful and endless. What an awesome music man.

@javieracosta275

2y↑1

I feel the same

@martyna9512

2y↑18

this is beautiful. just now I'm lying alone in my bed, it's 1:22 am. I'm reading a book called ,,they both die at the end". this song was mentioned in it and I had to listen to it. It's been a long time since I felt such inner peace. it's also been a long time since I enjoyed my own company. I really think that everything is going to be alright. we only have to keep the people and things we love in mind. it's important to do something you want to do because it's your passion or because you love it, not cause somebody else told you to. in the end those are the things you enjoy the most and come to peace. for me it's reading, writing and helping other people with the recourses I have. either it's my kindness, my advice, money, ...

@rayhoward8188

2y↑2

totally agree with you Martina, Ray twelve strings

@francoziliani7631

3y↑44

a total masterpiece, and the stunning voice of this girl, is like an angel

@Torgo1969

3y↑1

Which one?

@jura53kuba53

3y↑4

genialne ... nie mogę się uwolnic od tego rytmu

@shirley2447

18w↑1

This song makes me weep...reminds me of dancing with my mom when I was small, standing on her feet...amazing the emotions with a song

@fis3624

3y↑8

Truly mesmerising, amazing talent... I know the face, but had never listened to him sing, didn't know he had such an amazing breath taking voice what a shame I only recently discovered his singing... God bless his soul, RIP.

@Jax-le7xz

3y↑6

What a beautiful man. I tear up at this song, it's very emotional ❤️

@annaolivarez2578

3y↑14

Such sincerity and love that he had for his co-musicians!

@user-iq1jx3ci1l

3y↑11

Одно восхищение!!!!!!!!

@MarieAnneLeClerc

4y↑18

One of the greats - Brilliant just Brilliant! RIP Leonard Cohen🙏🏼💐💖

@gardens2b7

4y↑1

So happy I listened. His smile at the end is beautiful too.

@celiamoura4752

2y↑5

Sublimação total!
Gratidão eterno Leonard Cohen.

@v.i.p.matthew1992

3y↑15

Extremely beautiful. Thank you, Cohen and Lorca. My favorite!. 🤩🥰

@zmasternak

4y↑3

Towarzyszył mi w całym życiu ,w chwilach szczęścia i nie tylko.( a każdy koncert w Polsce łamał mi serce)
Ostatni przepłakałam .

@rieschi28

3y↑2

Mantener la tensión, el ritmo, el tono, el compás, y todo ello suavemente, con una voz melódica entre barítono y bajo, mientras la música fluye y fluye. Parece fácil pero es algo sólo al alcance de unos pocos genios inmortales.

@Greg_y

1y↑4

I find it hard to believe he's gone with us. I had two fathers, one of them made me and fed me and the other taught me how to feel and understand the world. They're both on the other side of the rainbow, but L.Cohen is always there for me ❤

@tamarchiqovani6944

4y↑27

The song, music is so beautiful that I can't stop listening it again and again... Thank you all who created it, and who performed it

@richardweeden9377

3y↑1

Leonard cohen

@richardweeden9377

3y↑2

Love it all.

@catshannon1584

31w↑3

Seen this magical man only once in Vienna in 2013 which I'll never forget. I've loved him since I was a teenager. I'm almost 70 now and still adore his music. This is a beautiful song.

@gislainemoreira7209

1y↑2

Magnífico instrumentistalista e cantor ...belíssimo!!💛💫🌻

@user-sn2wo4es5o

4y↑64

Настоящий талант! Достоин бесконечного восхищения!

@zofiamlynarz9692

Putin would like it while bombing Ukraine

@nualacarey5810

2y↑1

I listen to Leonard when I need a friend. I am 65 now. I met him when I was 17 in Dublin... Where else... fascinating and full of fun...!!!

@galinaklass1357

4y↑55

Слушая Коэна и изумительный бэк-вокал, понимаешь, что такое совершенство...

@schelpan

как можно петь о жизни не прожив ее?

@rosesulla2616

3y↑21

Bravo to all who accompanied Leonard!!!💕

@jossefzilberman1926

5y↑21

A giant of heart-warming ballads. Dylan and Cohen are my favorite singers.

@MikeSmith-wd4hn

Ditto! Both have played an enormous influence on my life.

@joycegrant1794

3y↑13

Amazing singer just discovered. Beautiful Leonard Cohen

@lewisbaker5854

3y↑2

It's great to know people are still discovering him!

@paulvanwal4875

1y↑4

Leonard Cohen a Legend and a friend , how could I ever forget the magic you brought to our Life. 👏👏👏

@iracelymoreira1161

4y↑2

Não canso de ouvir.

@philipclifford2314

3y↑1

The arrangement of this song is superb. These musicians put a lot of love and pride into their work.

@user-to8fg8vo6y

29w↑1

Mi amor platónico , ayer , hoy y siempre

@pinksunset_

5y↑16

My all time favorite song. Oh, Leonard Cohen, you beautiful soul.

@reginehospital3225

3y↑2

Respectueux attentionné Léonard Cohen...avec ses musiciens...ses chanteuses magnifiques et Javier Mas ...un pur bouleversement, il nous met le cœur à l'envers, mais que c'est bon comme souvenirs...🌟💖🕯🕊