Leonard Cohen: A Woodcut Biography

George A. Walker's Leonard Cohen: An Intimate Portrait presents new perspectives on the life and artistic accomplishments of a poet and musician who has captivated generations for six decades. The engravings depict scenes from Cohen's creative endeavors, including poetry, novels, singing, and songwriting, and present portraits of famous characters who shared his life and friendship. The book is best read to music and encourages readers to contemplate Cohen's life and work through the lens of their own experience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2020
Publisher: Firefly Books Ltd

In his captivating exploration of Leonard Cohen's life and artistic achievements, master engraver George A. Walker unveils fresh perspectives on a poet and musician who has enchanted audiences for six decades and whose influence spans the globe. Presented chronologically, the engravings depict scenes from Cohen's diverse creative endeavors, encompassing poetry, novels, singing, and songwriting. The book also features portraits of some of the renowned individuals who graced Cohen's life and friendship, including poets Irving Layton and Allan Ginsberg, musicians Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, and celebrated artist Andy Warhol.

To fully immerse oneself in this captivating journey, it is best experienced alongside the music of Cohen. Leonard Cohen invites readers to explore a biographical mosaic that delves into the public perception of Cohen's critical and commercial acclaim. While some scenes are drawn from history, others emerge from Walker's imaginative realm. These engravings encourage us to go beyond the surface and perceive them as poems, songs, and meaningful phrases. They prompt us to reflect on Cohen's life and work through the lens of our own experiences.

Originally conceived as a celebration of Cohen's eighthieth birthday, Leonard Cohen was first published as a limited edition of eighty copies hand printed at Walker's studio in Toronto. This revised edition boasts two additional engravings, enhancing its allure even further.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 140 x 222 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780228102885