Leonard Cohen, the legendary musician who graced the music industry for five decades, has died at the age of 82. A letter addressed to his former lover reportedly dropped some hints of the Canadian singer's possible knowledge of his nearing death.
Marianne Ihlen, Cohen's muse and ex-lover way back in the 1960’s, was the inspiration behind the tracks “So Long, Marianne” and “Bird on the Wire.” The songs were written as the singer/songwriter found out that the Norwegian lady was on her deathbed with leukemia.
CBC shared an interview with Ihlen’s close friend, Jan Christian Mollestad, quoting the music legend’s letter.
“Marianne it's come to this time when we are really so old and our bodies are falling apart and I think I will follow you very soon. Know that I am so close behind you that if you stretch out your hand, I think you can reach mine. And you know that I've always loved you for your beauty and your wisdom, but I don't need to say anything more about that because you know all about that. But now, I just want to wish you a very good journey. Goodbye old friend. Endless love, see you down the road…”
Cohen’s former flame passed away on July 29 at 81. As the novelist and poet penned in the said love letter, it did not take so long until he, too, passed away. Sony Music Canada shared on their Facebook page the news confirming the 82-year-old’s death.
"It is with profound sorrow we report that legendary poet, songwriter and artist, Leonard Cohen has passed away. We have lost one of music's most revered and prolific visionaries," the post read.
According to the post, the departed singer's memorial will be held in Los Angeles at a later date. It added that during this period of grieving, the family of the music legend would like to keep their privacy.
Cohen was a 2008 Rock and Roll Hall of Famer who also garnered a 2010 Lifetime Achievement Grammy. Earlier this year, he released “You Want It Darker,” giving all his avid followers something to remember him by especially now that he finally reached his day’s end.
