A Ballet of Lepers: A Novel and Stories

A Ballet of Lepers is a collection of poetry and fiction written by Leonard Cohen between 1956 and 1961, offering insight into his imagination and creative process. The titular novel is a haunting examination of themes that would permeate his later work, while the fifteen stories and playscript probe the inner demons of his characters. The collection is vivid in its detail, unsparing in its gaze, and reveals the great artist and visceral genius like never before.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2022
Publisher: Canongate Books

Before the legendary late-career world tours, Grammy awards, chart-topping albums, and iconic songs like "Hallelujah," "So Long, Marianne," and "Famous Blue Raincoat," Leonard Cohen embarked on a different path. In his early years, he pursued his passion for poetry and fiction, yearning for literary stardom. Hidden within the pages of "A Ballet of Lepers," readers will discover the roots of the magic that animated Cohen's unforgettable body of work.

Written between 1956 in Montreal, shortly after publishing his first poetry collection, and 1961, when he settled on Greece's Hydra island, these pieces offer a startling insight into Cohen's imagination and creative process. They explore themes that would later permeate his later work, ranging from shame and unworthiness to sexual desire and longing, whether for love, family, freedom, or transcendence.

The titular novel, "A Ballet of Lepers," which Cohen later remarked was "probably a better novel than my celebrated book, The Favourite Game," is a haunting examination of these elements. While the fifteen stories, as well as the playscript, delve into the inner demons of his characters, many of whom could function as stand-ins for the author himself, the book is meditative, surprising, playful, and provocative. It is vivid in its detail, unsparing in its gaze, and reveals the great artist and visceral genius like never before.

In conclusion, "A Ballet of Lepers" provides an unprecedented glimpse into the formation of Leonard Cohen's legendary talent. It unveils the seeds of his creativity, exploring themes that would shape his artistic journey and leave an indelible mark on the world of music and literature. This collection is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the man behind the music and the profound impact he has had on generations of artists and fans.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838852931
Edition number: Main