On The Loss Of A Hero (Poetry)

(Leonard Cohen: 1934 — 2016)

I would have loved to lie beside you
with your head upon my breast
you’re the stranger in my story
I’ve forgotten all the rest

For there’s comfort in the body
and its warmth will heat a stone
while your words hold to their promise
Death won’t find me on my own

Now I can’t believe you’ve left us
your great heart has lost its beat
all the wandering is finished
with no chance we’ll ever meet

You’ve been the hero in my legend
and the vacancy looms wide
but I guess your God will offer
new employment at his side

It’s all over for us, Leonard
pain’s the sum of all regret
I failed some fame audition
hence our spirits never met

But you’re out there in the darkness
breathing lyrics old and new
for the final ceremony
as the prophesy comes true

Could I once have lain beside you
shared the mystery of flesh
I’d have known you for a healer
and have seen myself as blessed

Despite poetry and music
beauty loses the last game
it’s all over, my sweet hero
Hark! — the angels call your name.