☝️ Key Points
- The song 'The Partisan' tells the story of a resistance fighter who did not surrender to the enemy, but went underground.
- The singer has made many sacrifices for his resistance, including the loss of his family, but finds solace in the connection with his comrades.
- It tells the tragic story of people who risk their lives to help the resistance fighters.
- The French lyrics refer to the historical context of the French resistance against German occupation during World War II.
- Overall, 'The Partisan' is a song about loss, sacrifice, solidarity, and hope in times of oppression and war.
Interpretation
The song 'The Partisan' by
Leonard Cohen is an anthem of resistance and hope. It tells the story of a partisan who refuses to surrender to the invading enemy troops and instead goes into hiding.
In the lyrics 'I have changed my name so often, I've lost my wife and children But I have many friends, And some of them are with me.', the singer portrays the sacrifices he has had to make for his resistance, including the loss of his family. However, he finds solace in the solidarity and unity he shares with his comrades.
The lines 'An old woman gave us shelter, Kept us hidden in the garret, Then the soldiers came; She died without a whisper.' tell the sad story of those who risk their lives to help the resistance fighters. Despite the tragedy, there is still hope, symbolized by the recurring refrain 'Oh, the wind, the wind is blowing, Through the graves the wind is blowing, Freedom soon will come; Then we'll come from the shadows.'
The French lyrics underscore the specific historical context of the song, which refers to the French resistance against German occupation during World War II.
Overall, 'The Partisan' is a song of loss, sacrifice, solidarity, and unwavering hope in times of oppression and war. It celebrates the courage of those who rise against injustice and tyranny.