From Song To Signifier: Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah
Applied Coheniotics 402 Reading Assignment
At the recently completed 2007 Pop Conference at Experience Music Project, Michael Barthel presented a paper on the evolution of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah from a listener’s personal experience into a handy tool available for use in the soundtracks of movies and TV shows.
While I don’t agree with every point, it is difficult to refute his primary thesis.1
More importantly, it’s a fascinating exhibition of pop cultural, political, and musical references spun together into a coherent construct.
The paper is enhanced and enlivened by recordings, many of which were new to me, to illustrate his points. It is not a breezy read but for anyone with more than a passing interest in Cohen, covers, or contemporary culture, it is a rewarding experience.
The original paper with additional comments is now available on Barthel’s excellent music blog, Clap Clap.
The paper can be found at The Curious Cultural Journey of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”
And yes, this will be covered on the final exam.
Footnotes
- My complete ignorance of the TV series, The OC, on which a fundamental pillar of Barthel’s argument is erected, turns out to be no more than a minor inconvenience ~back~
