Meaning of "Last Year's Man" by Leonard Cohen

"Last Year's Man" by Leonard Cohen delves into themes of reflection, nostalgia, and inevitability. The man in the song is portrayed as someone who has experienced various significant events in his life, but now finds himself stuck in a state of inertia. The references to Joan of Arc and the biblical stories of Bethlehem and Babylon suggest a deep contemplation on religious and historical influences. The imagery of waiting for Jesus or Cain reflects the concept of waiting for salvation or destruction, highlighting the eternal struggle between good and evil. The repetition of the rain falling on last year's man symbolizes the passage of time and the inability to escape the consequences of past actions. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of one's fate, wrapped in poetic and complex storytelling.