Meaning of "Master Song" by Leonard Cohen

"Master Song" delves into the complexities of a love triangle, with the speaker, the lover, and the master representing the three sides. The speaker believes that during a period of their illness, the lover engaged in a romantic relationship with the master, which becomes evident through the lover's actions and their unwavering loyalty. The master's influence over the lover is depicted through their ability to control and manipulate their actions, symbolized by the gift of a German Shepherd, which represents obedience and loyalty.

The lyrics also highlight the themes of betrayal and secrecy. The lover becomes the master's confidante, as they are privy to the speaker's intimate thoughts and secrets ("everything that I keep locked away in my head"). By sharing this information with the master, the lover betrays the speaker's trust and deepens the power imbalance in the relationship. The secrecy surrounding the affair is emphasized through lines such as "Your love is a secret all over the block." Despite the master's potential failures or shortcomings, the lover remains devoted and obedient, even when the relationship becomes strained.

The speaker's perspective is one of hurt and longing. They express feelings of abandonment and question the genuineness of the lover's affections. The line "Your love is some dust in an old man's cough" suggests that the speaker feels their love has been reduced to something trivial and insignificant, compared to the grandiose gestures and experiences shared with the master. The speaker also resents the lover's return, perceiving it as a mere act of duty rather than genuine concern for their well-being.

Overall, "Master Song" explores feelings of betrayal, power dynamics, and the longing for love and validation. It delves into the complexities of human relationships, questioning loyalty, trust, and the genuine nature of love.