Poem Analysis - First We Take Manhattan

Introduction: A Darkly Humorous Call to Action

Leonard Cohen's "First We Take Manhattan" is a darkly ironic and unsettling poem that resonates with a sense of vengeful ambition. The poem's tone blends the personal with the political, shifting between moments of vulnerable confession and unwavering resolve. It's a complex piece that seems to promise destruction while simultaneously hinting at a desire for connection. The refrain acts as a chilling mantra, both absurd and menacing.

Historical and Social Echoes

While not explicitly tied to a specific historical event, the poem's themes of rebellion, societal critique, and the allure of power resonate with many periods of upheaval and discontent. Cohen, writing during the late 20th century, likely drew inspiration from the anxieties surrounding political corruption, the excesses of capitalism ("fashion business, mister"), and the general sense of disillusionment felt by many. The reference to "drugs that keep you thin" points to the superficiality and destructive nature of certain societal pressures.

The Corrosive Power of Disillusionment

One of the central themes is the corrosion of hope and the resulting descent into destructive behavior. The opening lines, "They sentenced me to twenty years of boredom / For tryin' to change the system from within," reveal a protagonist who once believed in reform through peaceful means. The perceived failure of this approach has led to a radical shift, fueling the desire for a more forceful, even violent, change. This theme is reinforced by the character’s insistence on being guided by a "signal in the heavens" and the "beauty of our weapons", which implies that he is guided by forces outside himself and perhaps warped ideas.

The Paradox of Love and Destruction

The theme of love is presented in stark contrast to the poem's violent intentions. The speaker expresses genuine affection ("I'd really like to live beside you, baby"), yet acknowledges his inability to fully commit due to his destructive path. This creates a tragic paradox: the desire for intimacy is overridden by a sense of duty or purpose. The lines "Ah you loved me as a loser, but now you're worried that I just might win / You know the way to stop me, but you don't have the discipline" suggest that success in his mission would ultimately destroy any possibility of a fulfilling relationship, illustrating the isolating nature of his ambition. This further exemplifies the disillusionment as what was once a desirable love is now a burden, as only "loser" can be loved.

The Allure and Danger of Power

The poem explores the seductive nature of power and its potential for corruption. The repeated refrain, "First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin," is not necessarily about literal conquest but about a complete restructuring of societal norms. The speaker is not content with small changes; he aims for complete domination. The ambiguity of this goal – is it for personal gain or a genuine belief in a better world? – makes the poem all the more unsettling. The line "I practiced every night, now I'm ready" in relation to "The monkey and the plywood violin" makes taking Manhattan and Berlin a performance as much as an act of terrorism.

Symbolism of Manhattan and Berlin

Manhattan and Berlin serve as potent symbols. Manhattan represents the heart of American capitalism, culture, and media, making it a target for societal critique. Berlin, with its historical significance as a divided city and site of immense political upheaval, symbolizes a larger struggle against oppression and established power structures. The phrase "first we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin" is more metaphorical than literal. It signifies a comprehensive change, starting with the economic and cultural center, and then moving to the historical and political epicenter. Whether it's an act of destruction or reform remains ambiguous.

Conclusion: A Disturbing Symphony of Ambition

"First We Take Manhattan" is a complex and unsettling poem that explores the themes of disillusionment, love, and the corrupting influence of power. Through its darkly ironic tone, vivid imagery, and recurring symbols, Cohen creates a portrait of a character driven by a sense of righteous anger and a desire for radical change. The poem ultimately leaves the reader questioning the nature of justice, the cost of ambition, and the fine line between revolution and destruction. The final impression is a chilling and thought-provoking meditation on the human condition.