'First We Take Manhattan' by Leonard Cohen
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They sentenced me to twenty years of boredom
For trying to change the system from within
I'm coming now, I'm coming to reward them
First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin.
I'm guided by a signal in the heavens
I'm guided by this birthmark on my skin
I'm guided by the beauty of our weapons
First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin.
Editor 1 Interpretation
First We Take Manhattan: A Literary Criticism
Leonard Cohen's "First We Take Manhattan" is a timeless piece of poetry that has captured the hearts of millions of people across the globe. The song's lyrics are a reflection of Cohen's experiences and observations of life and society, and they offer a powerful commentary on issues that continue to affect us today.
Overview
"First We Take Manhattan" was released in 1987 as part of Cohen's album "I'm Your Man." The song is a dark and brooding meditation on power, control, and the lengths that people will go to achieve their goals. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and its lyrics have been quoted in films, TV shows, and novels.
At its core, "First We Take Manhattan" is a critique of the capitalist system and the ways in which it perpetuates inequality and injustice. The song's narrator is a revolutionary figure who seeks to overthrow the system and create a more just and equitable society. But the lyrics are also deeply personal, reflecting Cohen's own struggles with depression and his efforts to find meaning and purpose in his life.
Analysis
The song's opening lines are some of its most memorable:
They sentenced me to twenty years of boredom For trying to change the system from within I'm coming now, I'm coming to reward them First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin
These lines set the tone for the rest of the song, establishing the narrator as an outsider who has been punished for his attempts to reform the system. The reference to boredom is important here, suggesting that the narrator's efforts have been met with apathy and indifference, rather than active opposition.
The line "I'm coming to reward them" is intriguing, as it could be interpreted in a number of different ways. On one hand, it could suggest that the narrator is seeking revenge against those who have wronged him. On the other hand, it could be read as a promise of redemption, with the narrator seeking to reward those who have shown him kindness and support.
The reference to Manhattan and Berlin is also significant, as it suggests that the narrator's goals are global in scope. He is not content with simply changing things in his own community or country, but seeks to effect change on a much larger scale.
The song's chorus is equally powerful:
Ah, you loved me as a loser But now you're worried that I just might win You know the way to stop me, but you don't have the discipline How many nights I prayed for this, to let my work begin
These lines are directed at the narrator's enemies, who have underestimated him and now fear his potential for success. The reference to discipline is telling, as it suggests that the narrator's opponents lack the focus and determination to prevent him from achieving his goals.
The line "How many nights I prayed for this, to let my work begin" is particularly poignant, as it highlights the narrator's sense of purpose and his belief in his own ability to effect change. This line also speaks to Cohen's own struggles with depression, as it suggests that the act of creation has been a source of solace and meaning for him.
The song's second verse is equally powerful:
They're putting up the barriers, putting up the lines And they're handing out the firearms, just in case you cross the lines Fathers to the left of me, mothers to the right There's armies to the north and the south
Here, the narrator describes the ways in which the system seeks to maintain control and prevent dissent. The reference to firearms is chilling, suggesting that those in power are willing to use violence to maintain their grip on society.
The reference to fathers and mothers is intriguing, as it suggests that the struggle for justice is not just a male concern, but affects people of all genders. The reference to armies to the north and south reinforces the global scope of the narrator's ambitions, and suggests that the struggle for justice is a universal one.
The song's bridge is perhaps its most memorable section:
You loved me as a loser, but now you're worried that I just might win You know the way to stop me, but you don't have the discipline How many nights I prayed for this, to let my work begin First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin I don't like your fashion business, mister And I don't like these drugs that keep you thin I don't like what happened to my sister First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin
This section is a powerful statement of defiance, with the narrator refusing to be cowed by those in power. The reference to the fashion business and drugs is intriguing, as it suggests that the narrator sees these things as symptoms of a larger problem. The reference to the narrator's sister is also poignant, as it suggests that the struggle for justice is not an abstract concept, but something that affects real people in tangible ways.
The song's final verse is a powerful statement of hope:
And I thank you for those items that you sent me The monkey and the plywood violin I practiced every night, now I'm ready First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin
Here, the narrator acknowledges the support and encouragement he has received from others, and suggests that he is ready to achieve his goals. The reference to the monkey and the plywood violin is intriguing, as it suggests that the narrator has had to make do with whatever resources he has available.
Overall, "First We Take Manhattan" is a powerful and thought-provoking song that offers a powerful critique of the capitalist system and the ways in which it perpetuates inequality and injustice. The song's lyrics are rich and complex, and they offer a powerful commentary on issues that continue to affect us today. Whether read as a political manifesto or a personal reflection on the struggles of life, "First We Take Manhattan" is a testament to Cohen's talent and insight as a poet and songwriter.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
First We Take Manhattan: A Masterpiece by Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen, the Canadian singer-songwriter, poet, and novelist, is known for his profound and introspective lyrics that touch the soul of the listener. One of his most iconic songs, "First We Take Manhattan," is a masterpiece that captures the essence of Cohen's poetic genius. Released in 1988, the song has since become a classic and has been covered by numerous artists, including R.E.M., Joe Cocker, and Jennifer Warnes. In this article, we will delve into the meaning and significance of "First We Take Manhattan" and explore why it continues to resonate with audiences today.
The Song's Background
"First We Take Manhattan" was written by Leonard Cohen in the late 1980s, during a period of personal and creative turmoil. Cohen had taken a hiatus from music and was living in seclusion on the Greek island of Hydra. However, he was inspired to return to music after hearing the music of Phil Spector, who was known for his "Wall of Sound" production style. Cohen was particularly drawn to Spector's work with the girl group The Ronettes, and he began to experiment with a similar sound.
The result was "First We Take Manhattan," a dark and brooding song that features a driving beat, haunting synthesizers, and Cohen's signature baritone voice. The song's lyrics are equally powerful, with Cohen exploring themes of power, control, and violence. The song's title is a reference to a line from a play by Bertolt Brecht, "First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin," which has become a popular slogan among political activists.
The Meaning of the Song
At its core, "First We Take Manhattan" is a song about power and control. The lyrics describe a protagonist who is determined to take over the world, starting with Manhattan. The song's opening lines set the tone for the rest of the song:
"They sentenced me to twenty years of boredom For trying to change the system from within I'm coming now, I'm coming to reward them First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin"
These lines suggest that the protagonist has been imprisoned for his attempts to change the system, but he is now free and ready to exact revenge. The use of the word "reward" is particularly interesting, as it suggests that the protagonist sees his actions as a form of justice.
The song's chorus is equally powerful, with Cohen repeating the phrase "First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin" over and over again. This repetition creates a sense of urgency and determination, as if the protagonist is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals.
The song's second verse is particularly dark, with Cohen describing the protagonist's willingness to use violence to achieve his goals:
"I'm guided by a signal in the heavens I'm guided by this birthmark on my skin I'm guided by the beauty of our weapons First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin"
These lines suggest that the protagonist sees himself as a chosen one, guided by a higher power to carry out his mission. The reference to the birthmark on his skin is also interesting, as it suggests that the protagonist sees himself as marked for greatness.
The use of the phrase "the beauty of our weapons" is particularly chilling, as it suggests that the protagonist sees violence as a form of art. This is a common theme in Cohen's work, as he often explores the darker aspects of human nature.
The song's final verse is perhaps the most enigmatic, with Cohen describing the protagonist's desire to be with a woman named Jane:
"Well you loved me as a loser, but now you're worried that I just might win You know the way to stop me, but you don't have the discipline How many nights I prayed for this, to let my work begin First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin"
These lines suggest that the protagonist has a complicated relationship with Jane, who may have been his lover or his muse. The reference to her loving him as a loser suggests that the protagonist may have been an underdog at some point, but he is now on the verge of achieving greatness.
The reference to Jane knowing the way to stop him is also interesting, as it suggests that she may have some power over him. However, the fact that she lacks the discipline to stop him suggests that the protagonist is too powerful to be stopped.
The Significance of the Song
"First We Take Manhattan" is a powerful and thought-provoking song that explores themes of power, control, and violence. The song's protagonist is a complex and enigmatic figure, driven by a desire to take over the world. However, the song's lyrics also suggest that the protagonist may be a victim of his own ambition, as he is willing to use violence to achieve his goals.
The song's use of repetition and imagery creates a sense of urgency and determination, as if the protagonist is on a mission that cannot be stopped. The song's dark and brooding tone is also typical of Cohen's work, as he often explores the darker aspects of human nature.
"First We Take Manhattan" has become a classic song that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its themes of power, control, and violence are still relevant in today's world, and the song's haunting melody and powerful lyrics continue to captivate listeners. Whether you are a fan of Leonard Cohen or simply appreciate great music, "First We Take Manhattan" is a song that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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