On 7 November 2016 we said goodbye to the great Leonard Cohen at the age of 82. A Canadian singer, poet, novelist, and songwriter, he had a remarkable ability to turn emotions into words and words into timeless music.
His songs explored the deepest corners of human experience — love, heartbreak, loneliness, faith, spirituality, hope, and loss. His unmistakable deep baritone voice carried a quiet power, making even the simplest words feel profound.
Among his most memorable songs are Anthem, Hallelujah, Suzanne, Famous Blue Raincoat, and Dance Me to the End of Love. Each carried its own story, emotion, and meaning, connecting with generations of listeners around the world.
His music has been with me through the best and worst times of my life. In the happy moments he gives us something to celebrate with, and in the dark ones he makes us feel less alone. He taught me that our flaws aren’t something to hide, they’re where the light comes through.
ANTHEM
The birds they sang
At the break of day
Start again
I heard them say
Don’t dwell on what has passed away
Or what is yet to be
Ah, the wars they will be fought again
The holy dove, she will be caught again
Bought and sold, and bought again
The dove is never free
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That’s how the light gets in
We asked for signs
The signs were sent
The birth betrayed
The marriage spent
Yeah, and the widowhood
Of every government
Signs for all to see
I can’t run no more
With that lawless crowd
While the killers in high places
Say their prayers out loud
But they’ve summoned, they’ve summoned up
A thundercloud
They’re going to hear from me
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That’s how the light gets in
You can add up the parts
But you won’t have the sum
You can strike up the march
There is no drum
Every heart, every heart
To love will come
But like a refugee
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That’s how the light gets in
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything
That’s how the light gets in
That’s how the light gets in
That’s how the light gets in
