Amen
Leonard Cohen · Old Ideas [1974]
When I've been to the river
And I've taken the edge off my thirst
Tell me again
We're alone and I'm listening
I'm listening so hard that it hurts
Tell me again
When I'm clean and I'm sober
Tell me again
When I've seen through the horror
Tell me again
Tell me over and over
Tell me that you want me then
Amen,
Tell me again
When the victims are singing
And the Laws of Remorse are restored
Tell me again
That you know what I'm thinking
But vengeance belongs to the Lord
Tell me again
When I'm clean and I'm sober
Tell me again
When I've seen through the horror
Tell me again
Tell me over and over
Tell me that you love me then
Amen,
Tell me again
When the day has been ransomed
And the night has no right to begin
Try me again
When the angels are panting
And scratching at the door to come in
Tell me again
When I'm clean and I'm sober
Tell me again
When I've seen through the horror
Tell me again
Tell me over and over
Tell me that you need me then
Amen,
Tell me again
When the filth of the butcher
Is washed in the blood of the lamb
Tell me again
When the rest of the culture
Has passed through the Eye of the Camp
Tell me again
When I'm clean and I'm sober
Tell me again
When I've seen through the horror
Tell me again
Tell me over and over
Tell me that you love me then
Amen,
Amen
Amen stands as a poignant song in Leonard Cohen's 1974 album Old Ideas, capturing the artist's signature blend of poetic melancholy and spiritual inquiry. During this period, Cohen moved away from the folk-rock prominence of his earlier years toward a more introspective, spoken-word delivery that would define much of his subsequent career. The track reflects the album's broader exploration of faith, doubt, and human frailty, delivered with the baritone gravity that became his trademark. As part of a discography rich with meditative compositions, this recording exemplifies Cohen's ability to distill complex theological and emotional themes into accessible, haunting melodies. It remains a testament to his enduring influence on singer-songwriters and his unique capacity to transform personal reflection into universal art.