Leonard Cohen

Reviews

Leonard Cohen: The Mystical Roots of Genius is the book so many of us have been waiting for. In it, Harry Freedman explores, in an entrancingly original and totally accessible way, the spiritual inspiration that is such an integral part of Leonard’s work. Beautifully written, this is among the finest volumes on Cohen’s life and lyrics. It’s an exploration which would have intrigued and engaged Leonard himself. Leonard Cohen taught us that even in the midst of darkness there is light, in the midst of hatred there is love, with our dying breath we can still sing Hallelujah. For those who know and want to know even more, this account of Leonard Cohen’s preoccupations and what he made from his knowledge of the religious, is fascinating. A cultural story of a cultural giant. Freedman’s book highlights even further layers of meaning to the songs which speak so profoundly to so many of us, regardless of faith or spiritual background. An intriguing and specific look at the traditions and stories that influenced a brilliant songwriter. There have been several books written about Cohen since his death but none of them, until now has gone deep into his soul. This is not a biography of the man but rather a biography of the the landscape of his soul...Freedman explores song by song how Cohen reworked myths and prayers, legends and allegories and leads us to an understanding of Cohen’s life as we gain, insight into the man and his music. Freedman...takes a fresh approach by focusing on Biblical and Torahic references in Cohen’s lyrics. Harry Freedman’s workmanlike examination of how Leonard Cohen’s spiritual life shaped his songs is rich in detail. …The Mystical Roots of Genius turned out to be a well-nigh perfect book to read over the High Holy Days… This is a charming and compelling walk through Leonard Cohen’s spiritual life. Described on the flyleaf as “Britain’s leading author of popular works of Jewish culture”, Freedman lives up to his billing by expressing sharp scholarship in crisp sentences... [Freedman’s] handling of the words is masterly. He leaves you feeling wiser about Leonard Cohen, and Judaism, and life. Fluidly written…the breadth of Freedman’s erudition is impressive. And ultimately he is an insightful guide to the many religious references in Cohen’s back catalogue...Freedman has shone a light on the inspiration behind these songs. Much could have remained in darkness without him. Freedman is a much-published Judaic and Aramaic scholar whose book brims with insight… The content of this book is terrific. This unique book is a gift to anyone who wishes to be accompanied more deeply into the biblical, Kabbalistic, and Buddhist themes underlying these texts. The redeeming power of Freedman’s book is that it allows his fans to be exposed one more time to Cohen’s incredible personality and intelligence and, for that reason, the book is a success. This book is for people who want to delve deeply into words of songs they may already know, admire and cherish. Freedman’s knowledge of these sources is excellent ... stimulating. Brims with insight. Reveals extent of the musician’s fascination with scriptures of Judaism and Christianity. Lucid. Expand reviews