From This Broken Hill I Sing to You: God, Sex, and Politics in the Work of Leonard Cohen

This book explores Leonard Cohens relationship with God, sex, and politics, tracing a consistent theology across his writing, influenced by his Jewish heritage and expressed in his lyrics and poems.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 200 pages
\n Publication date: 07 October 2021
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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Leonard Cohen's complex and often troubled relationship with God is intricately linked to his struggles with sex and politics. In his book, "Cohen and Covenantal Theology," the author delves into the realm of Covenantal theology and its profound influence on Cohen's work. Through a comprehensive analysis of Cohen's writings, the book seeks to trace a consistent theology that spans sixty years of his artistic journey. Drawing upon his Jewish heritage and its expression in his lyrics and poems, the author endeavors to unveil the underlying principles that shape Cohen's faith, frustration, and sardonic taunting.

Cohen's commitment to covenant, and his profound anger towards a God who created humans with a tendency to fail it, form the foundation of his theological outlook. The author explores how Cohen's unorthodox use of Jewish and Christian imagery, his writings on women, politics, and the Holocaust, and his final theology, "You Want It Darker," released just three weeks before his death, all contribute to tracing the evolution of his faith and ire.

Cohen's unconventional approach to religion is evident in his use of Jewish and Christian imagery. He seamlessly blends these two religious traditions, drawing upon their rich symbolism and imagery to convey his theological ideas. For instance, in his song "Hallelujah," Cohen incorporates the image of the Messiah, drawing upon Christian theology to express his longing for redemption and salvation. However, he also incorporates the Jewish tradition of the shofar, a trumpet used in religious ceremonies, to symbolize the call to repentance and the pursuit of spirituality.

Cohen's writings on women, politics, and the Holocaust also shed light on his theological perspective. He often challenged traditional gender roles and societal norms, advocating for women's rights and social justice. His songs, such as "The Partisan," and "Suzanne," address the plight of the oppressed and the victims of war, reflecting his deep concern for the suffering of humanity. Similarly, his poetry, such as "The Tower of Song," explores the themes of loss, grief, and the search for meaning in the aftermath of the Holocaust.

Cohen's final theology, "You Want It Darker," released just three weeks before his death, provides a profound insight into his spiritual journey. In this album, Cohen confronts his own mortality and the inevitability of death. He expresses his anger towards God, questioning the fairness of a world that allows so much suffering and pain. However, he also finds solace in his faith, embracing the darkness and uncertainty of life. The album is a testament to Cohen's unwavering commitment to his faith, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, "Cohen and Covenantal Theology" offers a comprehensive exploration of Leonard Cohen's relationship with God, sex, and politics. Through a meticulous analysis of his writings, the book reveals the underlying principles that shape his faith, frustration, and sardonic taunting. Cohen's unconventional use of Jewish and Christian imagery, his writings on women, politics, and the Holocaust, and his final theology, "You Want It Darker," all contribute to tracing the evolution of his faith and ire. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complex and profound artistic legacy of Leonard Cohen.

\n Weight: 266g\n
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 15 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780567694768\n \n