leonardcohenforum.com

Am I the only one who finds it offensive when I see parodies and imitations of Leonard`s writing on this Forum ?

I do wish members would develop their own creative abilities, instead of desecrating his.

His work is perfect. Leave it alone.

I am sure Leonard would agree with me one thousand percent.

If this sounds hostile, I apologise. It`s not meant to be.

I wish you all every success with your OWN creative endeavours.

Peace.

Sasha K

Hi Sasha,

I understand your concern, but I am not sure that Leonard would agree with you.
Here's his answer to a question in a CBC interview, I've done my best to transcribe and you are also welcome to watch the interview using the link below (you will find this particular Q&A at 38:13 on the YouTube video)

Q: Do your songs feel like possesion in a sense that, is there ever a version of somebody working with your writing that you don't appreciate?

A: Very rarely does that happen. I am not sure that it's ever happened. You know, I had a very modest career for most of my life and I was always happy when someone did one of my songs so that overrode most of the critical concerns I might have had. In fact, you know, my critical faculties went into suspended animation when someone would do one of my songs and I generally was just delighted when anybody [did] and I still feel that way.

Watch the full interview here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugh8Xe6hX7U

Sasha K wrote: I am sure Leonard would agree with me one thousand percent.

Surely you mean one thousand percentage deep?

On the other hand, maybe not..............

Sasha K wrote:
>Am I the only one who finds it offensive when I see parodies and imitations of Leonard's writing on this Forum? I do wish members would develop their own creative abilities, instead of desecrating his. His work is perfect. Leave it alone. I am sure Leonard would agree with me one thousand percent. If this sounds hostile, I apologise. It's not meant to be. I wish you all every success with your OWN creative endeavours.


Have you tried anger management, or listening to 'Leaving Greensleeves'?

"Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery " Charles Caleb Colton ( 1780-1832)

To those who have just replied: Please read my posting again.

I am a little surprised that some people think the words " see parodies and imitations of Leonard`s WRITING" would mean " hear covers of his songs".

I do try to choose my words with care. If the word " parodies" is unclear, then perhaps consult a dictionary.

Moderators, I would appreciate it if you would consider placing a moratorium on all parodies of Leonard`s writing, and on all invitations to buy/ contribute to IMITATIONS of Leonard`s writing - including work by others that is " based" on published work by Leonard.

I appreciate this Forum enormously. It is a wonderful resource for study and renewal .I will not comment further on this thread as my intention was to get people thinking, not to get involved in a conflict.

Sasha K

Hi Sasha
Just a gentle tease here, I don't think Leonard would agree one thousand percent! He, who is so respectful of the English language, knows something can only be 100%. Anyone who says more than 100% shows themselves to be...
It is similar to saying something is a bit (or rather or slightly) unique - unique means it is the only one of its kind - my favourite hobby horse.
About your subject, I don't know really, but I can understand your point of view.
Evie B

Sasha K wrote:
>To those who have just replied: Please read my posting again.


ok i did that. have you tried listening to 'leaving greensleeves'? it's a parody leonard wrote based on the old 'greensleeves' song.