About the song
Let’s dive into the poetic world of “Suzanne” by Leonard Cohen. This enchanting song, with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, has captivated listeners since its release in 1967. Written by the iconic Leonard Cohen himself, “Suzanne” was featured on his debut album titled “Songs of Leonard Cohen.”
Leonard Cohen, a masterful songwriter and poet, has a knack for crafting songs that resonate deeply with audiences. “Suzanne” is a prime example of his lyrical prowess, painting a vivid portrait of a mysterious woman named Suzanne and the profound impact she has on the narrator’s life.
The song didn’t achieve significant commercial success in terms of chart positions, but it garnered widespread critical acclaim for its poetic beauty and emotional depth. Its timeless appeal has made it a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists over the years.
“Suzanne” is a mesmerizing journey through love, longing, and spirituality, with Cohen’s rich baritone voice drawing listeners into a world of introspection and wonder.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Leonard Cohen’s music or discovering “Suzanne” for the first time, its haunting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, sit back, relax, and let the poetic genius of Leonard Cohen’s “Suzanne” transport you to a realm of beauty and introspection.
Video
Lyrics
Suzanne takes you down to her place near the river
You can hear the boats go by, you can spend the night beside her
And you know that she’s half-crazy but that’s why you wanna to be there
And she feeds you tea and oranges that come all the way from China
And just when you mean to tell her that you have no love to give her
Then she gets you on her wavelength
And she lets the river answer that you’ve always been her lover
And you want to travel with her, and you want to travel blind
And then you know that she will trust you
For you’ve touched her perfect body with your mind
And Jesus was a sailor when he walked upon the water
And he spent a long time watching from his lonely wooden tower
And when he knew for certain only drowning men could see him
He said all men will be sailors then until the sea shall free them
But he himself was broken, long before the sky would open
Forsaken, almost human, he sank beneath your wisdom like a stone
And you want to travel with him, and you want to travel blind
And then you think maybe you’ll trust him
For he’s touched your perfect body with his mind
Now, Suzanne takes your hand and she leads you to the river
She’s wearing rags and feathers from Salvation Army counters
And the sun pours down like honey on our Lady of the harbor
And she shows you where to look among the garbage and the flowers
There are heroes in the seaweed, there are children in the morning
They are leaning out for love and they will lean that way forever
While Suzanne holds the mirror
And you want to travel with her, and you want to travel blind
And then you know that you can trust her
For she’s touched your perfect body with her mind