2. Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen
This song has been completely, ironically misinterpreted. From Celine Dion to Bono to the Shrek soundtrack, almost everyone has covered this possibly one of the best songs of all time; from almost every American Idol competitor. Since the song contains many Biblical connections like those of King David, religious groups have also taken particular liking to it. Still, the song really addresses – wait for it – SEX.
Halalujah! Some of the most exquisite lyricism of all time has come from our allusions to getting down and filthy. Good for Leonard Cohen; he was crooning about getting it on, and it went straight over our heads because he made it so poetic. Cohen’s work is brilliant in that it can mix the holy with the profane and has layered meanings. Although the song does refer to Biblical tales—especially those of King David and Bathsheba—it uses these allusions to examine the nuanced nature of love, desire, and personal relationships. Lines like “Your faith was strong but you needed proof, you saw her bathing on the roof” combine sexual want with religious commitment. Blurring the barriers between spiritual and bodily love, the repeated “Hallelujah” functions as both a prayer and an ecstatic shout. This duality has let the song appeal to many listeners, each finding their own meaning in Cohen’s deft poetry.
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