The narrator describes setting out on a journey unaware of the dangers that lie ahead, only to be swept away by the powerful undertow and left stranded on a desolate beach with a sense of despair and emptiness.

Meaning of "Undertow" by Leonard Cohen

The lyrics of "Undertow" by Leonard Cohen depict a metaphorical journey that captures the uncertainties and unexpected challenges that life presents. The narrator's decision to venture out when the tide is low represents taking risks and facing unknown circumstances. The undertow symbolizes forces beyond our control that can engulf us and leave us feeling helpless and stranded in a dark place. The child in the narrator's arms could represent innocence or vulnerability, and the chill in their soul reflects a deep sense of fear or unease. The heart in the shape of a begging bowl suggests a longing for something more, possibly spiritual or emotional nourishment that is lacking in their current situation. Overall, the lyrics explore themes of vulnerability, uncertainty, and the feeling of being at the mercy of forces beyond our control.