It may catch many by surprise, but the distinction of being the By George Journal’s pick as our country’s greatest love song must go to the legendary, singer-songwriter, musician, poet and novelist Leonard Cohen for his hauntingly romantic “Dance Me to the End of Love.”
Most Canadians know of the iconic poet’s verse – but few have had the chance to appreciate Leonard Cohen’s endearing musical talents.
Below, we’ve provided the lyrics to our pick for the most amourous, the greatest love song any Canadian has ever written. Here is a link to the ageless Canuck crooner performing his “Dance Me to the End of Love.” (You may prefer the song’s music video.)
Dance me to your beauty with a burning violin
Dance me through the panic ’til I’m gathered safely in
Lift me like an olive branch and be my homeward dove
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to the end of love
Oh let me see your beauty when the witnesses are gone
Let me feel you moving like they do in Babylon
Show me slowly what I only know the limits of
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to the wedding now, dance me on and on
Dance me very tenderly and dance me very long
We’re both of us beneath our love, we’re both of us above
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to the children who are asking to be born
Dance me through the curtains that our kisses have outworn
Raise a tent of shelter now, though every thread is torn
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to your beauty with a burning violin
Dance me through the panic till I’m gathered safely in
Touch me with your naked hand or touch me with your glove
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to the end of love
Dance me to the end of love
.
ENDNOTE (Feb 2016): Leonard Cohen is 81 and remarkably, just 4 years ago he released an album which was critically acclaimed the world over. Check here for the reviews of “Old Ideas.”
Chris George provides reliable PR & GR counsel and effective advocacy. Need a go-to writer and experienced communicator? Call 613-983-0801 @ CG&A COMMUNICATIONS. Contact: ChrisG.George@gmail.com