Leonard Cohen: LET US COMPARE MYTHOLOGIES — Side A
Summary
The hosts launch a Leonard Cohen series, beginning with his early life and poetry rather than his music. They discuss his affluent Montreal upbringing, the influence of his Jewish heritage, and the pivotal discovery of Federico Garcia Lorca’s work. The episode also covers his initial guitar lessons from a mysterious Spaniard and his social rise at McGill University.
Topics discussed
Intro, DistroKid sponsorship, and Leonard Cohen impression
Returning to regular episodes and introducing the Leonard Cohen series
Hosts' personal histories with Leonard Cohen's music and albums
Comparing Cohen's evolution to Dylan and discussing his multidimensional artistry
Biographical context: Birth in Montreal and family background
The Cohen family's wealth, status, and Leonard's sartorial style
Jewish identity and the Westmount community dynamics
Father's death and Leonard's early maturity and 'old soul' persona
Discovery of Federico Garcia Lorca and beginning to write poetry
Buying a guitar and the legendary story of his first teacher
College life, fraternity involvement, and political ambiguity
Literary influences, Irving Layton mentorship, and early poetry success
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