The Contemporary Leonard Cohen: Response, Reappraisal, and Rediscovery

The book "The Contemporary Leonard Cohen" explores Leonard Cohen's diverse art in the wake of his death, positioning him as a contemporary, multi-media artist whose career was framed by the twentieth-century and neoliberal contexts of its production. It borrows the idea of "the contemporary" from philosophy and art history, applying it to Cohen's drawings, songs, poems, and novels. The book also examines the deep feelings that Cohen's work still generates in readers and listeners, due to its sense of timeliness and timelessness.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: Wilfrid Laurier University Press

The captivating new study "The Contemporary Leonard Cohen" delves into the enigmatic allure of Leonard Cohen's enduring presence and diverse roles in music, literature, and art. The global media's coverage of Cohen's passing has solidified his status as an international icon, cherished by countless fans worldwide. This book explores the rich diversity of Cohen's artistic output in the aftermath of his death, positioning him as a contemporary, multi-media artist whose career was shaped by the twentieth-century and neoliberal contexts of its creation. The authors borrow the concept of "the contemporary" from philosophy and art history, applying it to Cohen for the first time, encompassing not only his drawings featured in some of his books but also his songs, poems, and novels. This innovative approach sheds light on Cohen's artistic techniques after his postmodern experiments in the 1960s and 1970s, revealing the roots of his most recent compositions. Furthermore, it unveils the earlier connections between Cohen and other writers and musicians, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of his artistic evolution. Philosophically, "the contemporary" delves into the profound emotions that Cohen's work continues to evoke in readers and listeners. Whether these feelings stem from spiritual or secular realms, sincerity or irony, they are partly rooted in the sense of timeliness and timelessness found in Cohen's lyrics and images, which resonate with our own lives and times, our struggles, and our survival. Collaborating with an international team of experts, "The Contemporary Leonard Cohen" offers an appreciative yet critical examination of this enigmatic luminary, shedding light on his enduring legacy and profound impact on the world of art.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781771125611