HomeLeonard CohenSong Meaning of "Darkness" by Leonard Cohen

Song Meaning of “Darkness” by Leonard Cohen

Song Details

  • Album Release Date: 2012
  • Genre: folk

Song Meaning of “Darkness” by Leonard Cohen

The Leonard Cohen song “Darkness” is a powerful, introspective song about the darkness that resides in all of us. The lyrics go beyond sadness and despair to deeply personal reflections on the nature of living in darkness and how it can be both a burden and a blessing. The lyrics open the song with the line “There is a crack in everything/ That’s how the light gets in.” This is an acknowledgement of the fact that darkness can lead us to a greater understanding of ourselves and of life. It suggests that we must accept our darkness, our flaws and weaknesses, and let the light into those parts of ourselves.

The chorus speaks about the inevitability of darkness, and how, even in its presence, there is still hope. These lines reflect the idea that despite the darkness, one can still find moments of beauty and joy in life. The second verse speaks of the need for courage to navigate the darkness and carry on through life. The line “you don’t always know what’s coming, so you have to take it on faith” serves as a reminder that no matter how hard life may be, we must trust in ourselves and our abilities to make it through.

The song speaks of the darkness as a deeper aspect of the human experience, a part that is often neglected or hidden away. “Darkness” serves as a reminder that it is important to recognize, observe, and come to peace with the darkness within each of us. Even in the depths of the darkness, we can find moments of joy and moments of strength.

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