"Leaving Green Sleeves" is a song about a love affair gone wrong, where the narrator expresses his longing for a lover who has rejected him. Despite the mistreatment, the narrator remains captivated by the object of his affection, referred to as "Green Sleeves." The song describes their intimate moments together and the narrator's disappointment when he realizes that the lover he desired has vanished. Ultimately, he decides to leave as well, leaving "Lady Green Sleeves" behind.

Meaning of "Leaving Green Sleeves" by Leonard Cohen

"Leaving Green Sleeves" delves into themes of unrequited love, longing, and the fleeting nature of relationships. The narrator is deeply hurt by his lover's rejection but also finds a strange solace in it, as their disdain only intensifies his affection. This paradoxical dynamic hints at the complexity of human emotions and the way love can sometimes thrive in the face of adversity. The use of the term "Green Sleeves" as an identifier for the lover adds an air of mystique and separation from reality. The lyrics also explore the transient nature of passion, as indicated by the fallen leaves and the departure of men from Green Sleeves' life. The narrator's revelation of seeing Green Sleeves naked symbolizes a desire for vulnerability and a hope for a new beginning, only to be met with disappointment when the person is no longer there. By choosing to leave as well, the narrator illustrates his own agency and unwillingness to be stuck in an unfulfilling relationship. Overall, the lyrics present a bittersweet tale of unrequited love and the struggle to move on from a failed connection.