| Leonard Cohen – Joan of Arc Lyrics | 14 years ago |
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I believe the fire calling to her is a metaphor for the call of martyrdom that was awaiting her and is awaiting all those who grow deeper in Love. Martyrdom can be "wet"-witness resulting in suffering and death (being killed) or "dry"-witness resulting in suffering and enduring while remaining alive. We know that sexual affectionate love (Éros), virtuous, dispassionate love between family members and friends-"brotherly love" (Philia), natural affection of parents for their offspring and affection between family members (Storge), and unconditional love and general love, often regarded as a deeper sense of true love over physical attraction (Agape), are all loves which require a cost of an individual. As one grows more deeply in love, he is open to more suffering as well as more joy. As one grows more deeply in love, more is asked of him or her in the form of commitment and sacrifice whether it be a wife and husband, parent and child, between siblings, between friends, between concerned relatives and community members. Love has been depicted as a flame. There is love for God (Agape). The same Greek word for unconditional and a more perfect love for one's spouse, family, neighbors, and others is used for love of God and regarded as Divine Love. The Bible states that "God is a Consuming Fire."-Hebrews 12:29. Fire is regarded as Passion. The Bible also states "Zeal for Thy House Will Consume Me."-Psalm 69:9 and John 2:17. In a hymn are the words "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling." All loves originate from God and His Love exceeds them all. Joan of Arc burning at the stake is very visual image of the suffering and sacrifice of deep Love and being consumed by God. The fire and Joan, a young maiden, being added to the wood leads to the poetic symbolism of a marriage feast, ultimate union with God, and the cost of love in her martyrdom. The wincing and crying of pain are contrasted with the Glory, Grace, and Love of God within her and emanating from her eyes. An Onlooker(s) marvel at the Light and Love obtained by this young maiden, and long for it for themself, but question the price that might come with it. |
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| Leonard Cohen – Joan of Arc Lyrics | 14 years ago |
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The song "Joan of Arc" captivated me as a teenager when I first heard it on a Judy Collins album I had purchased. I pondered the words and message. I also noted that it was written by Leonard Cohen. I remember my twin sister remarking that she could not understand why I liked that song because she thought it was weird. I remember friends we had in common thinking the song was weird also and wondering what I could like about that song. I have continued to really like that song as I have grown older because of the lyrics and the message it conveys. My twin sister and our mutual friends changed their mind about that song as they grew older and deepened in spiritual matters. |
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