Lyric discussion by mpg48 

Cover art for Treaty lyrics by Leonard Cohen

Cohen's allusions are always complex and this nod to Ariel is no exception. I think you'll find your answer in Shelley's poem With a guitar. To Jane. Then again, maybe not, but that's my take on it.

My Interpretation

@mpg48 I just saw this comment today, I don't get notified if it's not tied to the thread. Very well said, they are always complex. Thank you for the tip I will check it out.

@mpg48 Aeriel is known as the Lion of Judah. Gender neutral Archangel, guardian of all the created nature, of all the immanence of God. Treaty is a Psalm to God. A psalm of disorientation tinged with regret at end of life. We are gifted life and the angels watch over us, but we are free to fail. “We sold ourselves for love but now we’re free.” Aligns with line in You want it Darker, “I didn’t know I had permission to murder and to maim” . We are free, but we have conscience and sense of duty to live in a...