Meaning of "Go No More A-Roving" by Leonard Cohen

"Go No More A-Roving" by Leonard Cohen speaks to the inevitability of change and the passage of time. The decision to no longer wander at night reflects a deeper understanding of the limits of human existence. The imagery of the sword outwearing the sheath and the soul outwearing the breast conveys the idea that everything has its time, including love and passion. The repetition of not roving by the light of the moon emphasizes the need to accept the natural course of life, where love must also find rest. The song captures a sense of resignation, as one recognizes the need to slow down and appreciate the beauty of life without the need for constant movement. It provides a contemplative reflection on the transient nature of love and the importance of finding peace in stillness.