Teaser // Leonard Cohen: LET US COMPARE MYTHOLOGIES — Side B
Summary
The hosts analyze Leonard Cohen’s debut poetry collection, *Let Us Compare Mythologies*, debating its formal restraint versus the wildness of Beat poetry. They explore how Cohen’s Canadian and bourgeois upbringing influenced his dry, reserved style compared to the chaotic American artistic spirit. The discussion contrasts contemporary critical reception with modern perspectives, noting the work’s subtle edge. Finally, they prepare to read excerpts from the book to illustrate these thematic differences.
Topics discussed
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Leonard Cohen on spirituality and sexuality
Critics' views on Cohen's use of sex and violence
Contextualizing 1956 Canadian poetry criticism
American vs. Canadian artistic temperaments
Cohen's early formalism and dry style
Influence of bourgeois upbringing and university
Transition to reading from Let Us Compare Mythologies
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