Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen was a poet, novelist, and singer whose works are known for their expressions of spirituality and sexuality. Born in Montreal to a prosperous family active in Jewish organizational and religious leadership, Cohen attended McGill University, where he was influenced by poets Louis Dudek and Irving Layton. Cohen published his first book of poetry, Let Us Compare Mythologies, in 1956. Most known for his songs “Suzanne” and “Hallelujah,” Cohen drew upon his Jewish background in such pieces as “Who By Fire.” He lived on the island of Hydra in Greece, in Los Angeles, and in Montreal. Cohen was honored as a Companion of the Order of Canada, the nation’s highest civilian honor.