Introduction to 'Suzanne'

'Suzanne' is one of the most recognizable songs from Leonard Cohen's arsenal, a poetic and reflective piece that has captivated listeners since its release. The song is believed to be about a free-spirited woman named Suzanne Verdal, the wife of an artist named Armand Vaillancourt who lived in Montreal during the early 1960s. Through this article, we delve into the story behind this timeless composition.

The Inspiration Behind 'Suzanne'

Leonard Cohen revealed in a BBC interview that 'Suzanne' was inspired by his acquaintance with Susanne Verdal, who was the wife of sculptor Armand Vaillancourt. The meeting took place in Montreal, during a vibrant and creative era. Susanne, like her character in Cohen's song, aspired to be a dancer but eventually moved to Los Angeles, where she could not fulfill her dreams. According to Susanne, she last lived in a trailer on Venice Beach.

Meeting and Relation

Susanne Verdal was interviewed about her connection with Leonard Cohen, and here are some excerpts from the conversation that provide more context:

Narrator: Now, 'Suzanne' takes you down into her place near the river, you can hear the boats go by, you can spend the night beside her... And you know she’s half crazy.

Suzanne: The Beat scene was beautiful. It was live jazz and we were just dancing our hearts out for hours on end, happy on very little. I mean we were living most of us on a shoestring. Yet there was always so much to go around if you know what I mean. You know there was so much energy and sharing and inspiration and pure moments and quality times together on very little or no money.

The Beat scene in Montreal during the early 1960s was a cultural hub for artists and creatives, and Susanne was a part of it, both as a dancer and a muse. Her account paints a picture of joy and camaraderie among the bohemian community.

Susanne mentions their first meeting: Leonard Cohen saw me when I was a young girl in love...

In terms of how they became close: It was maybe several months into my relationship with Armand which was mostly based on being dancing partners together. And he would watch us dancing of course. And then I was introduced to Leonard at Le Vieux Moulin I think in the presence of Armand in fact. But we didn’t really strike a note together until maybe three or four years later.

The Friendship and Inspiration

Despite the initial non-connection, Leonard and Susanne struck a close friendship over several years. Their relationship was marked by mutual respect and the sharing of experiences. According to Susanne, With Leonard, it happened more in the beginning of the sixties. When I was living, then separated from Armand, I went and was very much interested in the waterfront. The St. Lawrence River held a particular poetry and beauty to me and I decided to live there with our daughter Julie.

Leonard Cohen, intrigued by Susanne's choice of living in an unconventional place, came to visit her multiple times. They spent time together, having tea and sharing mandarin oranges, a vivid imagery that resonates in the song.

One of Leonard Cohen's most poignant lines in the song comes from Susanne's memory: And just when you mean to tell her / that you have no love to give her / then she gets you on her wavelength / and she lets the river answer / that you've always been her lover.

Artistic Influences and Recollections

A significant detail to understand is that Susanne was not just a muse but also an influence on Armand Vaillancourt, a sculptor. The sculpture by Armand Vaillancourt referenced in the song likely serves as a testament to their artistic connection.

Susanne's reflections on the times they shared are poetically vivid, capturing the essence of the Beat scene and the cultural richness of Montreal's early 1960s. Her account also provides invaluable insights into Leonard Cohen's creative process and the inspiration behind such a timeless and evocative song.

Conclusion and Final Reflections

Through Susanne Verdal's recollections, we see a portrait of Leonard Cohen as a chronicler and observer rather than a seducer, a portrayal that aligns with his narrative style and thematic interests. 'Suzanne' stands not just as a song but as a literary masterpiece that reflects the cultural and artistic milieu of its time. It is a song that continues to resonate, a testament to the enduring power of Leonard Cohen's artistry.