Meaning of "Joan of Arc" by Leonard Cohen

The lyrics of "Joan of Arc" by Leonard Cohen delve into the themes of sacrifice, love, and the destructive nature of passion. The narrative centers around Joan of Arc, a historical figure known for her bravery and determination during the Hundred Years' War. The song begins with the image of flames following Joan of Arc, symbolizing the intensity and tumultuousness of her life and actions. The absence of light and companionship in the dark night highlights Joan's loneliness and longing for a different existence.

Joan expresses her weariness of the war and her desire to return to a simpler life, perhaps implying her wish for a more conventional female role. She longs for a wedding dress or something white, symbolizing purity and femininity, suggesting a desire for love and stability. These desires are met with understanding by Fire, a figurative representation of passion and intensity. Fire admires Joan's strength and independence, as represented by her solitude and pride.

However, the union between Joan and Fire is not a harmonious one. As Joan willingly offers herself to Fire, the imagery becomes increasingly more destructive. The lyrics describe her climbing inside Fire, giving herself completely to him. This act symbolizes Joan's sacrifice and surrender to love, but it also foreshadows her tragic fate. Fire takes the "dust of Joan of Arc" into his fiery heart, consuming her completely. The ashes of her wedding dress are hung above the wedding guests, symbolizing the annihilation of her hopes and desires.

Joan's realization comes too late, as she finally understands that if Fire is fire, then she must be wood. She winces and cries, experiencing both pain and glory in her eye. This recognition reflects the bittersweet nature of love and the transformative power it holds. While Joan longs for love and light, she questions whether it must come with such cruelty and brightness. The lyrics hint at the paradoxical nature of passion, which can bring both joy and destruction.

In essence, "Joan of Arc" explores the complexities of love and the sacrifices one can make in pursuit of it. It portrays the struggle between the desire for a conventional life and the intense, all-consuming nature of passion. Ultimately, the song suggests that love can be both beautiful and destructive, leaving a lasting impact on those who experience it.