Meaning of "Take This Longing" by Leonard Cohen

"Take This Longing" by Leonard Cohen delves into the intricacies of love and desire. The narrator expresses a deep yearning for their beloved but also a sense of inadequacy and longing. The lyrics touch on themes of beauty, betrayal, and unrequited love. The lines "Let me see your beauty broken down, Like you would do for one you love" convey a desire for vulnerability and intimacy in the relationship. The references to poverty and charity juxtaposed with greed highlight the complexities and contradictions of human emotions. The song captures the bittersweet essence of love, where longing and loss coexist. Overall, "Take This Longing" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and relationships, capturing both the beauty and pain they entail.