prolific.org

Leonard Cohen looks out over the crowd in Westerpark. The setting sun touches the tops of our heads. Or perhaps we struck by the reflection of Cohen’s ‘golden voice’.

It’s a deep, deep voice that is also surprisingly strong in the higher register as his faithful rendition of perhaps his best known song, Suzanne, proves.

You could probably write a novel based on the stories and imagery that enchant us in the three hours Cohen graces the stage. But what words have I that would do the poet justice?

I am accutely aware of history, memories, the passing of time when I watch the audience (mostly aging, but some so very young) sway to Take This Waltz. Some sing along, off key but word perfect. These are songs we have known and lived with all our lives. Songs that will continue to be heard after we’re gone. Cohen thanks us for keeping them alive. And I thank heaven I finally got the chance to pay him the respect he’s earned so well.

73 years old he is, wearing a Sinatra-eque hat and a stylish dark suit. If there were a beauty pageant for the aged he’d probably be up against Sean Connery. Cohen would win it hands down. Smart men are sexy. Hallelujah.