Meaning of "By The Rivers Dark" by Leonard Cohen

The lyrics of "By The Rivers Dark" explore themes of loss, captivity, and surrender to an unknown force. Babylon symbolizes a state of mind or a metaphorical place of disillusionment and despair. Throughout the song, the rivers dark serve as a haunting backdrop, representing the depths of darkness and uncertainty. Cohen's description of forgetting his holy song and losing his strength is indicative of losing touch with one's core values and identity under the weight of societal pressures or personal struggles.

The mysterious figure who hunts and harms Cohen may represent external forces or internal demons that compromise his sense of self and freedom. The cutting of his lip and heart symbolizes the loss of his ability to speak his truth and the pain inflicted upon his emotional core. In this state, he is unable to draw sustenance from the river dark, suggesting that he is unable to find solace or refreshment amidst his trials.

Cohen's realization that his heart does not belong to him emphasizes the loss of autonomy and the surrender to external influences. The wind being given his wedding ring signifies the loss of sacred and intimate connections, leaving him stripped of his emotional attachments. The circling of "everything" around him by the mysterious figure suggests a pervasive presence that infiltrates every aspect of his existence.

Despite the turmoil and captivity, Cohen recognizes his undeniable tie to Babylon. It becomes his reality, a place where he is resigned to live his life. The withered limb and the tree singing for him represent the diminished state of his creative and spiritual expression, as both his song and existence are dedicated to the enigmatic presence. The decision not to forget Babylon, even at the cost of truth and blessings, highlights the power it holds over him and his unwillingness to let go of this all-consuming force that haunts him by the dark rivers.