Meaning of "Lover Lover Lover" by Leonard Cohen

The lyrics of "Lover Lover Lover" by Leonard Cohen delve into themes of personal transformation, accountability, and protection. The speaker seeks a new beginning, asking for a change in identity as a means to escape the fear, filth, and shame that currently engulf them. There is a sense of regret and a desire to undo past mistakes, with a plea for a face that is fair and a spirit that is calm. The relationship with the lost lover becomes a metaphor for the struggle to navigate one's own existence and the choices that have been made. The acknowledgment of personal responsibility and the realization that it is the individual who constructs their own limitations is a powerful moment in the lyrics. The request for the spirit of the song to act as a shield against external threats highlights the vulnerability felt by the speaker, showing a need for protection and guidance in the face of adversity.