Meaning of "Night Comes On" by Leonard Cohen

"Night Comes On" is a poignant exploration of themes of loss, longing, and the human struggle to find meaning in a chaotic world. The song begins with the narrator visiting his mother's grave, seeking comfort and guidance in a difficult time. The metaphor of the night is used to represent darkness, solitude, and the desire for the pain to be prolonged. The mother's presence is a symbol of protection and love, offering solace to the narrator. However, she instructs him to return to the world, implying that he cannot hide from life's hardships.

The lyrics then shift to the narrator's experience as a soldier in a war, where his father suffers a severe injury. This serves as a reflection on the brutality of war and the lies propagated by those in power. The line "I'd like to pretend that my father was wrong" conveys the narrator's struggle to come to terms with the harsh reality of the world, refusing to deceive himself or others, especially the young.

The song delves into the narrator's personal struggles as well, particularly his search for something to fill the void within him. He turns to religion but finds it insufficient, craving human connection and touch. The arrival of his children brings a sense of responsibility but also a reminder of the promises he made to them. The line "They hide, they hide in the World" suggests that his children retain their innocence and protection within the confines of the world, shielding them from the harsh realities.

The narrator continues to search for his beloved, consumed by longing and the hope of her return. He yearns to be united with her, describing her beauty and ethereal presence. There is a sense of acceptance in the final verse, as the narrator acknowledges the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. He finds solace in the simple pleasures of nature and the companionship of his friends at Bill's Bar. The song concludes with the mother's voice, urging the narrator to return to the world.