Meaning of "Hunter's Lullaby" by Leonard Cohen

"Hunter's Lullaby" by Leonard Cohen explores themes of sacrifice, pursuit of the unknown, and the consequences it has on the familial bond. The song portrays a father figure who embarks on a hunting expedition, symbolizing a journey into uncertainty and danger. The forest and other settings mentioned represent a place of profound mystery and the unknown, where the father seeks to capture a beast that can never be tamed. The inability of the wife and child to follow speaks to the role of women and children being excluded from these adventurous and perilous pursuits. It reflects a societal expectation that women are to stay behind, while men venture into the unknown.

The lines, "Where only greed can enter, But spirit, spirit cannot pass" highlight the powerful theme of the corrupting influence of material desires. The father's pursuit of the beast is driven by greed and a desire to possess, a motive that obstructs the spiritual realm. This suggests that the father is sacrificing his spiritual well-being by indulging in this chase.

The loss of the lucky charm and the guardian heart signifies the father's loss of protection. The lucky charm represents fortune and providence, while the guardian heart embodies the ethics and morality that protect individuals from harm. With these losses, the father exposes himself to the dangers of his endeavor without the safeguards he once possessed. It hints at the consequences of pursuing the unknown without proper guidance or moral grounding.

The narrator's assurance not to stop the father reflects the recognition that the pursuit is his own responsibility and that interfering or restraining him would be futile. It acknowledges the inevitability of personal journeys, whether physical or metaphorical, and the necessity for individuals to confront their own challenges and make their own choices without outside interference. The lullaby-like rhythm and comforting tone give a sense of acceptance and understanding, providing solace to the child left behind and perhaps also conveying a message of acceptance for the sacrifices fathers make in pursuit of their ambitions.