I Tried To Leave You

Leonard Cohen's song 'I Tried To Leave You' delves into the complexities of a long-term relationship, capturing the push and pull of love, commitment, and the passage of time. The opening lines, 'I tried to leave you, I don't deny / I closed the book on us, at least a hundred times,' reveal a recurring struggle to part ways, only to find oneself drawn back into the relationship. This cyclical pattern suggests a deep, perhaps unbreakable bond that persists despite attempts to sever it.

The lyrics also touch on the mundane yet profound aspects of shared life, such as waking up beside each other every morning and dealing with the daily responsibilities that come with raising a child. 'The baby's crying, so you do not go outside, / and all your work it's right before your eyes,' paints a picture of domestic life where personal sacrifices are made for the sake of family. This line underscores the theme of enduring love and the sacrifices that come with it, highlighting how the couple's shared responsibilities keep them tethered together.

In the closing lines, 'Goodnight, my darling, I hope you're satisfied, / the bed is kind of narrow, but my arms are open wide. / And here's a man still working for your smile,' Cohen encapsulates the essence of enduring love and commitment. Despite the narrow bed, symbolizing the constraints and limitations of their relationship, his arms remain open wide, signifying his unwavering support and affection. The final line, 'And here's a man still working for your smile,' emphasizes the ongoing effort and dedication required to maintain a loving relationship, even after many years.