The Meaning Behind The Song: Master Song by Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen, the legendary singer-songwriter known for his poetic and introspective lyrics, crafted many timeless songs that continue to resonate with listeners today. One such song is “Master Song” from his 1967 album, Songs of Leonard Cohen. In this article, we delve into the meaning behind the lyrics of “Master Song” and explore the emotions and experiences that this song evokes.
Table:
| Title | Master Song |
|---|---|
| Artist | Leonard Cohen |
| Writer/Composer | Leonard Cohen |
| Album | Songs of Leonard Cohen (1967) |
| Release Date | December 27, 1967 |
| Genre | Rock, Contemporary Folk, Singer-Songwriter |
| Producer | John Simon |
Now, let’s explore the deeper meaning behind the hauntingly beautiful lyrics of “Master Song.”
“Master Song” is a melancholic portrayal of a complex and intense relationship. The song seems to speak of a lover who has been captivated by a master, someone who holds power and control over them. The narrator, seemingly sick in bed, believes that the person they are addressing, possibly a former lover, has heard their master sing and has been influenced by them.
The song opens with the lines, “I believe that you heard your master sing, when I was sick in bed.” These words suggest that the narrator feels a sense of abandonment and betrayal by the person they are addressing. They believe that the master has divulged all the hidden thoughts and emotions that the narrator had kept locked away in their head, leaving them vulnerable and exposed.
Throughout the song, Cohen weaves vivid imagery, metaphor, and symbolism to depict the complexities of the relationship. The mention of a temple where clothes are taken at the door could symbolize a sacred or secret meeting place. The narrator describes the master as a “numberless man in a chair” who has just returned from war. This image conjures up feelings of weariness, fatigue, and a sense of detachment from the horrors of war.
The master’s influence is further explored through the lyrics, “And he gave you a German Shepherd to walk, with a collar of leather and nails.” The German Shepherd could represent loyalty, protection, and obedience, while the collar of leather and nails signifies the bondage and control imposed upon the person by the master.
The theme of secrecy and unrequited love is prevalent throughout the song. The lyrics hint at the narrator’s yearning for the person they are addressing, even though their love is a secret to the rest of the world. The mention of “all over the block” suggests that their love is known to the neighborhood, yet it persists despite the master’s failure. The master’s failure could refer to the inability to hold onto the person completely, as they may still long for the narrator.
As the song progresses, Cohen’s poetic lyrics continue to paint a vivid picture of the emotional turmoil and longing experienced by the narrator. The master takes the person on an airplane flight, offering a momentary escape from reality. However, the mention of “an ape with angel glands” erasing pain with the music of rubber bands hints at a fleeting and superficial remedy for their shared anguish.
The final verses of the song bring a sense of resignation and acceptance. The narrator acknowledges that the person they address is devoted to the master, kneeling before him as if he were a god. The line, “My body has grown numb” suggests the narrator’s emotional detachment and numbness in response to the person’s allegiance to the master.
In the last stanza, the narrator questions the person’s rough play and insatiable desires, suggesting that they have returned too soon. The narrator expresses their own love for the master, claiming to have taught him everything he knows. Despite the narrator’s attempts to move on, longing lingers.
Personal experiences with this song can vary, as its rich and complex lyrics allow for multiple interpretations. For some listeners, “Master Song” may resonate with the pain and confusion experienced in a toxic or controlling relationship. Others may connect with the themes of unrequited love and the longing for someone who remains out of reach.
Personally, “Master Song” resonates with me on a deeper level. Its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics remind me of a past relationship where I felt controlled and manipulated. The song serves as a cathartic experience, validating my emotions and allowing me to reflect on the lessons learned. Leonard Cohen’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotions in his songwriting is truly remarkable.
In conclusion, “Master Song” by Leonard Cohen delves into the depths of longing, control, and unrequited love. Its poetic and introspective lyrics continue to captivate listeners and evoke a myriad of emotions. By exploring the meaning behind the song and sharing personal experiences, we gain a deeper appreciation for the mastery of Leonard Cohen’s storytelling through music.
