Here It Is

Leonard Cohen's song 'Here It Is' is a poignant exploration of the cyclical nature of life, love, and death. The lyrics present a series of symbolic items and experiences, each paired with the notion of love. Cohen's use of simple yet profound imagery, such as crowns, rings, wine, and sickness, serves to illustrate the various facets of human existence. The repetition of the phrase 'Here is your love' underscores the idea that love permeates every aspect of life, from the mundane to the divine, and from joy to suffering.

The song's refrain, 'May everyone live, and may everyone die. Hello, my love, and my love, Goodbye,' encapsulates the inevitability of life's transitions. This duality of greeting and farewell reflects the transient nature of human relationships and experiences. Cohen's lyrics suggest that love is the constant thread that weaves through the fabric of life, even as we face the inevitability of death. The mention of 'your death in the heart of your son' and 'in your daughter's heart' highlights the enduring impact of love and loss across generations.

Cohen's reference to religious imagery, such as 'your cross, your nails, and your hill,' adds a layer of spiritual contemplation to the song. This allusion to the crucifixion evokes themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the eternal nature of love. The song's closing lines, 'And here is the love, that it's all built upon,' suggest that love is the foundation of all human experience, transcending the physical and temporal boundaries of life and death. Through 'Here It Is,' Leonard Cohen invites listeners to reflect on the profound interconnectedness of love, life, and mortality.