Meaning of "I Left A Woman Waiting" by Leonard Cohen

In "I Left A Woman Waiting," Leonard Cohen explores the aftermath of a failed relationship and the impact it has on both parties involved. The woman questions the narrator about the change she sees in him, symbolized by his dead eyes, reflecting how his emotional state has taken a toll on his appearance. As they come together intimately, they both feel free and devoid of life, suggesting that the end of their relationship brought a sense of liberation despite the pain. The reference to running water could signify the fluidity of emotions and the inevitability of change, emphasizing the acceptance of the reality of their situation. Overall, the lyrics portray a bittersweet realization that in love, there can be both loss and freedom.