Meaning of "String Reprise / Treaty" by Leonard Cohen

The lyrics of "String Reprise / Treaty" by Leonard Cohen convey a deep longing for reconciliation and understanding within a relationship. The narrator expresses their wish for a treaty, a formal agreement, between themselves and their partner. This treaty would bridge the divide that has emerged between them, symbolized by the reference to the water and the wine that has been consumed and lost. The mention of being "broken then but now borderline" suggests that although they have experienced hardships in the past, they are now teetering on the edge of finding common ground.

The desire for a treaty can be seen as a plea for resolution, indicating a longing to heal the wounds of the past and rebuild their love. The narrator yearns for a formal agreement that would establish harmony and understanding between them, bridging the gap that has been created. The contrasting imagery of water and wine conveys the idea of impermanence and loss. Water, often associated with purity and cleansing, represents the dissolution of their love, while wine, a symbol of celebration and joy, signifies the moments of happiness they have shared. The line "We were broken then but now we're borderline" implies that they have moved past their broken state, but the relationship is still fragile and on the brink of resolution.

The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, reflecting a desire for an idealized version of love and a yearning to mend what has been damaged. By expressing their wish for a treaty, the narrator shows their willingness to find common ground and overcome the conflicts that have plagued their relationship. Through this yearning for resolution, the song explores themes of forgiveness, vulnerability, and the complexities of love.