Book of Mercy

Arrived in good condition

I want to start out by saying I’m a fan [of Leonard Cohen]. I absolutely loved Book of Longing (although to be completely honest, I had to read it a second time to realize that I loved it) as well as Let Us Compare Mythologies.This book didn’t touch me the way those other two books did. Deep down, maybe I’m a romantic, and I’m primarily attracted to the sensual aspects of Cohen’s poetry, something that is largely missing from this book, at least in the way it’s found in those other two books. And, it’s also possible that when I come back for a second reading of Book of Mercy in a few months (something I’ve learned to make a practice of doing with poetry [even though this isn’t exactly poetry – he called it a book of prayer in one interview that I listened to]).So for now, I have to be honest and give a rating of 3/5, even though I am reserving the right to stew on it for a while, re-read the book, and change my rating.Final say: I’ll say I can take it or leave it.

Sadly, I had not heard of Leonard Cohen until True Detective 2 used his song “Nevermind” as its theme song. The song intrigued me enough that I bought the album “Popular Problems”. After reading about Cohen I knew I had to buy some of his writings.The Book of Mercy is billed as a modernization of Psalms. Cohen’s talent as a poet/writer is evident as he laments about life and its troubles. Written in a prose style, his poetic talent shines through.While reading each selection, I was constantly reminded of the actual Psalms. This made me think of these as more of a reworking than as new reflections. The tone is somber and while there are 50 selections, they seemed to have one note. I am a wretch but God loves me anyway.This was a hard book to review as Cohen is an amazing writer but this particular book did not demonstrate his talent very well.This one, reluctantly, gets only three stars.

Although Book of Mercy is written in prose, its soul is poetic.To try to describe it I must point at the Moon -- there are no wordsin me, experience it for yourself. My best friend's roots are Jewish,mine are Catholic, we have evolved into an inclusive state of being,yet Book of Mercy shows us the origins of our religions respectively --althouth it is beyond either.Here are some publisher's quotes: "An eloquent victory of the human spirit in combat with itself." (Globe and Mail)"One of the most honest and courageous attempts in Canadianwriting to grapple with ultimate truth." (Books in Canada)"Resplendent evidence of an arduous spiritual journey." (Maclean's)Nobody else in our times reaches the tundra of the soul's journey as does Cohen. A wonderful love-version of the Star of David graces the cover.

I haven't read enough of Leonard Cohen's writings to rate this a five. But it made me want to read more and listen more to his voice and those of others who have embraced his songs. One should not be just a lover of his songs which I am. His writings define him. It helps one understand the man. A quick but deep read.

Leonard Cohen, always the great poet, has done a masterful job of expressing the spirit of the Psalms in modern prosaic, poetic form. And like the son of the chief psalmist, Cohen has traveled a road that has taken him through many life experiences, only to come through them to arrive at the knowledge of that which truly matters. Book of Mercy is not only a literary gem, but a book of enlightening and thought provoking inspiration for Jew and Christian alike, not to mention that person we often refer to as a seeker.

Love it. Sad to say I only "discovered" Leonard Cohen's music and poetry about a year ago. Now, he is one of my favorites. He seems to touch all the feelings that are hard to express, perhaps more the sad, deep ones. Other people, who have known him and his work for years, provide moreve more meaningful reviews. I am simply grateful to have found him.

This was a read from a long time ago. I chose to visit again, and also to offer it to my wife who needed to read such words in a difficult time. Leonard Cohen is an acquired taste when it comes to music, but his writing is for all.

Leonard Cohen wrote these modern day psalms while living in a little caravan in the south of France. It was during a time of immense turmoil in his personal life and he wrote these very intimate confessions to confront these issues. By doing this, he had to reveal his most personal thoughts and feelings and he said that half-way through each of these prayers he felt the relief.Although for me it was not possible to connect to each and everyone of these essays I realised throughout the book that this was a brave piece of work. It is not a book to read like a novel and put on the shelf to forget, but rather a spiritual guide to consult from time to time when you feel the need. Here is a poet at work in every word, every phrase, every image.Recommended to those who love poetic writing and conversations with God to obtain peace of mind.

This has become my favourite book - ever

Fine. Bought it for somebody. Arrived quickly.

Present for 22 yr old son. He liked it hugely, but is into this genre of music and lit.

Enjoyed