Meaning of "Leonard Cohen" by The Dreadnoughts

The lyrics of "Leonard Cohen" by The Dreadnoughts delve into the inner turmoil of a person facing challenges and struggles in life. The references to liver trouble and heaven in one's face suggest a juxtaposition between physical health and spiritual contemplation, highlighting a sense of disarray and confusion. The repetition of "turn to, turn to" emphasizes the need for seeking something, whether it is within oneself or through external means. The imagery of living on the street, shadows on their feet, and sleeping rough paints a bleak picture of those left behind, showing the consequences of straying down the wrong path. The mention of Irish whiskey and dark tendencies symbolizes a desire for escapism and self-destructive behavior in the face of hardship. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of self-awareness, acknowledging one's mistakes and choices, and the need to find a reason and a way to move forward despite the tempting allure of vices. The reference to spending days at the Drake Motel and the acceptance of seeing someone in hell could symbolize a form of purgatory or reckoning with one's actions. Overall, the lyrics suggest a haunting reflection on the consequences of destructive behaviors and the search for redemption and purpose in life.