Different Sides
Leonard Cohen · Old Ideas [1974]
Of a line nobody drew
Though it all may be one in the higher eye
Down here where we live it is two
I to my side call the meek and the mild
You to your side call the Word
By virtue of suffering I claim to have won
You claim to have never been heard
Both of us say there are laws to obey
But frankly I don't like your tone
You want to change the way I make love
I want to leave it alone
The pull of the moon, the thrust of the sun
And thus the ocean is crossed
The waters are blessed while a shadowy guest
Kindles a light for the lost
Both of us say there are laws to obey
But frankly I don't like your tone
You want to change the way I make love
I want to leave it alone
Down in the valley the famine goes on
The famine up on the hill
I say that you shouldn't, you couldn't, you can't
You say that you must and you will
Both of us say there are laws to obey
But frankly I don't like your tone
You want to change the way I make love
I want to leave it alone
You want to live where the suffering is
I want to get out of town
C'mon baby give me a kiss
Stop writing everything down
Both of us say there are laws to obey
Yeah, but frankly I don't like your tone
You want to change the way I make love
I want to leave it alone
Both of us say there are laws to obey
But frankly I don't like your tone
You want to change the way I make love
I want to leave it alone
Different Sides
Leonard Cohen's "Different Sides" stands as a haunting centerpiece on his 1974 album *Old Ideas*. Released during a period of profound spiritual and artistic exploration, the track exemplifies Cohen's signature style, blending poetic lyricism with a somber, atmospheric musical arrangement. The song reflects the introspective nature of his work from the mid-1970s, where he frequently delved into themes of faith, doubt, and the human condition. With its distinctive vocal delivery and minimalist instrumentation, "Different Sides" captures the melancholic beauty characteristic of Cohen's discography, offering a listening experience that remains deeply resonant within the realm of art rock and folk. It serves as a testament to his ability to transform personal reflection into universal musical expression.

