2. Hallelujah - Leonard Cohen
This song has been widely—and ironically—misinterpreted. Covered by everyone from Celine Dion to Bono, and even featured in the *Shrek* soundtrack, *Hallelujah* is often seen as a spiritual or religious anthem due to its biblical references, such as those to King David. However, the song is actually about—wait for it—sex.
Yes, Leonard Cohen’s poetic lyrics about intimacy have flown over many heads. Cohen masterfully blends the sacred with the profane, creating layered meanings that resonate deeply. While the song does reference biblical stories, particularly those of King David and Bathsheba, it uses these allusions to explore the complexities of love, desire, and human relationships. Lines like “Your faith was strong but you needed proof, you saw her bathing on the roof” intertwine sexual longing with spiritual devotion. The repeated “Hallelujah” serves as both a prayer and an ecstatic cry, blurring the lines between spiritual and physical love. This duality has allowed the song to connect with listeners on multiple levels, each finding their own meaning in Cohen’s brilliant lyrics.
