Anthem
Anthem

Leonard Cohen - Anthem Lyrics

Singer/Songwriter
Oct 21, 2002
767
Anthem Music Video

Anthem Lyrics

The birds they sang
At the break of day
Start again
I heard them say
Don't dwell on what
Has passed away
Or what is yet to be
Yeah the wars they will
Be fought again
The holy dove
She will be caught again
Bought and sold
And bought again
The dove is never free

Ring the bells (ring the bells) that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack in everything (there is a crack in everything)
That's how the light gets in

We asked for signs
The signs were sent
The birth betrayed
The marriage spent
Yeah the widowhood
Of every government
Signs for all to see

I can't run no more
With that lawless crowd
While the killers in high places
Say their prayers out loud
But they've summoned, they've summoned up
A thundercloud
And they're going to hear from me

(Ring, ring, ring, ring)
Ring the bells that still can ring

Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything (there is a crack in everything)
That's how the light gets in

You can add up the parts
You won't have the sum
You can strike up the march
There is no drum
Every heart, every heart to love will come
But like a refugee

(Ring, ring, ring, ring)
Ring the bells that still can ring
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything (there is a crack in everything)
That's how the light gets in
Ring the bells that still can ring (ring the bells that still can ring)
Forget your perfect offering
There is a crack, a crack in everything (there is a crack in everything)
That's how the light gets in
That's how the light gets in
That's how the light gets in

Writer(s): Leonard Cohen
Copyright(s): Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who produced Leonard Cohen's song 'Anthem'?

    The song 'Anthem' was produced by Rebecca De Mornay in collaboration with Leonard Cohen. De Mornay, an actress who dated Cohen in the early 1990s, played a significant role in shaping the song by suggesting its arrangement and the inclusion of a gospel choir.

  2. What year was Leonard Cohen's song 'Anthem' released?

    'Anthem' was released in 1992 as part of Leonard Cohen's album 'The Future'. The album explores themes of social and political unrest, and 'Anthem' stands out with its profound reflections on imperfections and redemption.

  3. What role does 'Anthem' play in Leonard Cohen's discography?

    'Anthem' is considered a pivotal song in Cohen's discography, representing his deep understanding of human imperfection and hope. It captures the essence of Cohen's style, combining poetic lyrics with somber melodies, and is one of the standout tracks on his 1992 album 'The Future'.

  4. What iconic line is 'Anthem' known for?

    The song 'Anthem' is famous for the line 'There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in.' This line reflects Cohen's understanding of beauty in imperfection and has been widely quoted for its philosophical depth.

  5. In what film was Leonard Cohen's 'Anthem' featured?

    'Anthem' was prominently featured on the soundtrack for Oliver Stone's 1994 film 'Natural Born Killers', alongside other Leonard Cohen tracks such as 'Waiting for the Miracle' and 'The Future'.

  6. What themes does Leonard Cohen explore in 'Anthem'?

    In 'Anthem', Cohen explores themes of human imperfection, redemption, and resilience. The lyrics encourage listeners to accept flaws and impermanence, suggesting that beauty and enlightenment can emerge from life's imperfections.

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