Matti Friedman, an award-winning author and journalist, dives into the transformative experiences of Leonard Cohen during the 1973 Yom Kippur War. He discusses Cohen's unexpected decision to perform for Israeli soldiers, blending artistry with the harsh realities of conflict. The conversation highlights how Cohen's somber lyrics provided solace amid chaos, and explores the complexities of identity in turbulent times. Friedman's insights shed light on the lasting impact of Cohen’s music on both soldiers and the cultural landscape of Israel.
Leonard Cohen's music resonated with Israeli soldiers during the Yom Kippur War, providing solace and understanding in the midst of crisis.
The Yom Kippur War marked a turning point in Israel's national mood, leading to a shift in music towards somber and introspective themes.
Leonard Cohen's performances in war zones, like the Yom Kippur War, showcased his genuine empathy and ability to connect through his music.
Deep dives
Leonard Cohen's Music and the Yom Kippur War
In this podcast episode, the host discusses Leonard Cohen's involvement in the Yom Kippur War of 1973. Leonard Cohen, a musician who had announced his retirement from the music industry, unexpectedly traveled to Israel during the war and performed for Israeli soldiers on the front lines. Cohen's music, filled with profound lyrics and haunting melodies, resonated with the soldiers who were experiencing the harsh realities of war. This experience in the war had a transformative effect on Cohen's music, leading him to write songs such as 'Who By Fire,' which was influenced by the solemn prayer recited on Yom Kippur. The war also had a broader impact on Israel, challenging the country's previous optimism and belief in invincibility.
Israel's Post-1973 War Realization
The Yom Kippur War of 1973 brought about a significant shift in Israel's national mood and culture. Prior to the war, Israel had experienced a sense of confidence and triumph following the decisive victory in the Six-Day War of 1967. However, the 1973 war shattered this confidence and exposed the limits of force. The war resulted in heavy casualties and gave rise to a realization that wars would continue to be a part of Israeli life. The country's music scene also underwent a transformation, with a shift towards more somber and introspective music that expressed individual experiences and included elements of traditional Judaism. Traditional Jewish themes and prayers, like the liturgy recited on Yom Kippur, became more prevalent in Israeli music post-1973, reflecting a deeper connection to religious and spiritual aspects of Jewish identity.
The Power of Art in Times of Crisis
This podcast episode highlights the power of art to provide solace and meaning during times of crisis. Leonard Cohen's decision to travel to Israel during the Yom Kippur War demonstrates the role of a musician in bringing comfort and inspiration to those affected by war. His music, with its introspective and heartfelt lyrics, conveyed a sense of empathy and understanding for the soldiers' experiences. The episode also explores how the war impacted Leonard Cohen's own creative journey, leading to a reinvigoration of his music and the exploration of deeper themes. This story reminds us of the profound impact that art can have, transcending time and place, and providing a source of hope and reflection in the midst of hardship.
Leonard Cohen's Authentic Connection with the Audience
Leonard Cohen's performances in war-stricken areas, like the Yom Kippur War in Sinai, displayed an authentic connection with the audience. Although the language barrier may have made it difficult for some to understand the lyrics, Cohen's presentation and performance conveyed his understanding and compassion towards the listeners. His willingness to perform in mental hospitals and war zones demonstrated his genuine empathy and forged a strong connection with the soldiers and patients. Cohen's ability to connect through his music transcended cultural and linguistic boundaries.
The Impact of Cohen's Song 'Lover Lover Lover' during the War
One significant song that emerged during Cohen's time in the war was 'Lover Lover Lover.' This emotional and powerful song resonated with the soldiers as it expressed the intensity and realities of war. Cohen's personal presence in the desert, playing this song for soldiers, touched them deeply. The lyrics of the song, including the missing verse referred to by a soldier who encountered Cohen, reveal his desire to offer protection and support through his music. Despite the evolution of the song and the removal of certain verses, the impact of 'Lover Lover Lover' in connecting with the soldiers during the war was profound.
In 1973, Leonard Cohen announced he was done with music for good. The same year, in October, war broke out in Israel.
The Yom Kippur War would become the bloodiest in Israel’s young history—and Cohen was there to witness it. As the war broke out, he left his home on the Greek island of Hydra to fly into the warzone.
Leonard Cohen never said much about why he went to the front. What we know is that in the months that followed, he would write “Who By Fire.” Five decades later, on Spotify and in synagogue, you can still hear the echoes of this trip.
So what was it that happened in the desert in October of 1973 between this depressed musician and these too young soldiers going off to battle? How did it remake Leonard Cohen? How did it transform those who heard him play? And how did the war transform Israel itself?
This episode aired last year on Honestly, and we’re thrilled to reshare it with you today, as we approach the 50 year anniversary of the war that remade a country—and one searching folk star.
