Sisters Of Mercy lyrics and guitar chords
written by Leonard Cohen. The piano sheet music [ suited to the flute ] along with the tin whistle notes in the key of D are included.This version is by The Chieftains And Sting 4/4 time with capo on second fret. The song is about two women ''Barbara and Lorraine'' [one was Janis Joplin] who he met in a hotel in Canada and an affair Leonard Cohen had with Janis Joplin. The guitar chords are by Marc Fahrbach. This is the only song on the site written by Leonard Cohen and would probably not be here if it wasn't covered by The Chieftains, great version I have to say.
Sisters Of Mercy Song Words And Chords In G Major
Intro: G-C-G-D Em-C-G-D (2x)
Oh the (G)sisters of (C)mercy, they (G)are not de(D)parted or (G)gone. -C-G-D
They were (Bm)waiting for (F#m)me when I (Bm)thought that I (F#m)just can't go (D)on. -D-D-D
And they (C)brought me their (G)comfort and (F)later they (C)brought me this (D)song. -D-D-D
Oh I (G)hope you run (C)into them, (G)you who've been (D)travelling so (G)long. -C-G-D
Yes (G)you who must (C)leave every(G)thing that you (D)cannot con(G)trol. -C-G-D
It be(Bm)gins with your (F#m)family, but (Bm)soon it comes a(F#m)round to your (D)soul. -D-D-D
Well I've (C)been where you're (G)hanging, I (F)think I can (C)see how you're (D)pinned: -D-D-D
When you're (G)not feeling (C)holy, your (G)loneliness (D)says that you've (G)sinned. -C-G-D
Well they (G)lay down be(C)side me, I (G)made my con(D)fession to (G)them. -C-G-D
They (Bm)touched both my (F#m)eyes and (Bm)I touched the (F#m)dew on their (D)hem. -D-D-D
If your (C)life is a (G)leaf that the (F)seasons tear (C)off and con(D)demn -D-D-D
They will (G)bind you with (C)love that is (G)graceful and (D)green as a (G)stem. -C-G-D
Tune Bridge (optional)
G-C-G-D Em-C-G-D
When I (G)left they were (C)sleeping, I (G)hope you run (D)into them (G)soon. -C-G-D
Don't (Bm)turn on the (F#m)lights, you can (Bm)read their ad(F#m)dress by the (D)moon. -D-D-D
And you (C)won't make me (G)jealous if I (F)hear that they (C)sweetened your (D)night: -D-D-D
We weren't (G)lovers like (C)that and be(G)sides it would (D)still be all (G)right, -C-G-D
Em-C-G-D G-C-G-D Em-C-G-D - G
Intro: G-C-G-D Em-C-G-D (2x)
Oh the (G)sisters of (C)mercy, they (G)are not de(D)parted or (G)gone. -C-G-D
They were (Bm)waiting for (F#m)me when I (Bm)thought that I (F#m)just can't go (D)on. -D-D-D
And they (C)brought me their (G)comfort and (F)later they (C)brought me this (D)song. -D-D-D
Oh I (G)hope you run (C)into them, (G)you who've been (D)travelling so (G)long. -C-G-D
Yes (G)you who must (C)leave every(G)thing that you (D)cannot con(G)trol. -C-G-D
It be(Bm)gins with your (F#m)family, but (Bm)soon it comes a(F#m)round to your (D)soul. -D-D-D
Well I've (C)been where you're (G)hanging, I (F)think I can (C)see how you're (D)pinned: -D-D-D
When you're (G)not feeling (C)holy, your (G)loneliness (D)says that you've (G)sinned. -C-G-D
Well they (G)lay down be(C)side me, I (G)made my con(D)fession to (G)them. -C-G-D
They (Bm)touched both my (F#m)eyes and (Bm)I touched the (F#m)dew on their (D)hem. -D-D-D
If your (C)life is a (G)leaf that the (F)seasons tear (C)off and con(D)demn -D-D-D
They will (G)bind you with (C)love that is (G)graceful and (D)green as a (G)stem. -C-G-D
Tune Bridge (optional)
G-C-G-D Em-C-G-D
When I (G)left they were (C)sleeping, I (G)hope you run (D)into them (G)soon. -C-G-D
Don't (Bm)turn on the (F#m)lights, you can (Bm)read their ad(F#m)dress by the (D)moon. -D-D-D
And you (C)won't make me (G)jealous if I (F)hear that they (C)sweetened your (D)night: -D-D-D
We weren't (G)lovers like (C)that and be(G)sides it would (D)still be all (G)right, -C-G-D
Em-C-G-D G-C-G-D Em-C-G-D - G
Guitar Chords For The Key Of C
Oh the (C)sisters of (F)mercy, they (C)are not de(G)parted or (C)gone.
They were (Em)waiting for (Bm)me when I (Em)thought that I (Bm)just can't go (G)on.
And they (F)brought me their (C)comfort and (A#)later they (F)brought me this (G)song.
Oh I (C)hope you run (F)into them, (C)you who've been (G)travelling so (C)long.
Yes (C)you who must (F)leave every(C)thing that you (G)cannot con(C)trol.
It be(Em)gins with your (Bm)family, but (Em)soon it comes a(Bm)round to your (G)soul.
Well I've (F)been where you're (C)hanging, I (A#)think I can (F)see how you're (G)pinned:
When you're (C)not feeling (F)holy, your (C)loneliness (G)says that you've (C)sinned.
Oh the (C)sisters of (F)mercy, they (C)are not de(G)parted or (C)gone.
They were (Em)waiting for (Bm)me when I (Em)thought that I (Bm)just can't go (G)on.
And they (F)brought me their (C)comfort and (A#)later they (F)brought me this (G)song.
Oh I (C)hope you run (F)into them, (C)you who've been (G)travelling so (C)long.
Yes (C)you who must (F)leave every(C)thing that you (G)cannot con(C)trol.
It be(Em)gins with your (Bm)family, but (Em)soon it comes a(Bm)round to your (G)soul.
Well I've (F)been where you're (C)hanging, I (A#)think I can (F)see how you're (G)pinned:
When you're (C)not feeling (F)holy, your (C)loneliness (G)says that you've (C)sinned.
Alternative Chords In The Key Of D
Oh the (D)sisters of (G)mercy, they (D)are not de(A)parted or (D)gone.
They were (F#m)waiting for (C#m)me when I (F#m)thought that I (C#m)just can't go (A)on.
And they (G)brought me their (D)comfort and (C)later they (G)brought me this (A)song.
Oh I (D)hope you run (G)into them, (D)you who've been (A)travelling so (D)long.
Yes (D)you who must (G)leave every(D)thing that you (A)cannot con(D)trol.
It be(F#m)gins with your (C#m)family, but (F#m)soon it comes a(C#m)round to your (A)soul.
Well I've (G)been where you're (D)hanging, I (C)think I can (G)see how you're (A)pinned:
When you're (D)not feeling (G)holy, your (D)loneliness (A)says that you've (D)sinned.
Oh the (D)sisters of (G)mercy, they (D)are not de(A)parted or (D)gone.
They were (F#m)waiting for (C#m)me when I (F#m)thought that I (C#m)just can't go (A)on.
And they (G)brought me their (D)comfort and (C)later they (G)brought me this (A)song.
Oh I (D)hope you run (G)into them, (D)you who've been (A)travelling so (D)long.
Yes (D)you who must (G)leave every(D)thing that you (A)cannot con(D)trol.
It be(F#m)gins with your (C#m)family, but (F#m)soon it comes a(C#m)round to your (A)soul.
Well I've (G)been where you're (D)hanging, I (C)think I can (G)see how you're (A)pinned:
When you're (D)not feeling (G)holy, your (D)loneliness (A)says that you've (D)sinned.
The sheet music below in G Major can be used for the piano accordion or flute.
Sisters of mercy nuns
Leonard Cohen song Sisters Of Mercy
The Impact of Sisters of Mercy Song by Leonard Cohen as a Reflection of Human Vulnerability and the Quest for Spiritual Redemption
Introduction
Music has been a powerful medium for expressing human emotions and experiences since ancient times. It has the ability to touch the deepest parts of our souls and evoke a range of feelings within us. Throughout history, many musicians have used their art to delve into the complexities of human nature, and one such artist is Leonard Cohen. A legendary singer, songwriter, and poet, Cohen's work has captivated audiences for decades, with his hauntingly beautiful lyrics and melodies. One of his most iconic songs, Sisters of Mercy, has been a subject of fascination and interpretation for many years. This thesis aims to explore the impact of Cohen's Sisters of Mercy song, its lyrical content, and its significance as a reflection of human vulnerability and the quest for spiritual redemption.
Background
Sisters of Mercy was released in 1967 as part of Cohen's debut album, Songs of Leonard Cohen. It quickly gained popularity, becoming one of his most beloved and enduring songs. The song's lyrics tell the story of a man seeking shelter from the cold, who is taken in by two women known as the Sisters of Mercy. The man finds solace and comfort in their presence, and the song ends with him thanking the sisters for their kindness. On the surface, the song may seem simple and straightforward, but a closer analysis reveals a deeper meaning and a reflection of the human experience.
Human Vulnerability
The Sisters of Mercy is a poignant portrayal of human vulnerability. The protagonist in the song is in a state of despair, seeking refuge from the harshness of the world. His vulnerability is evident in the line, 'Oh, the sisters of mercy, they are not departed or gone. They were waiting for me when I thought that I just can't go on.' This line highlights the protagonist's sense of hopelessness and his belief that he cannot go on without the help of others. This sentiment is relatable to many individuals who have found themselves in moments of despair, seeking comfort and support from others.
Furthermore, the sisters themselves represent a symbol of compassion and mercy, offering a safe haven for the protagonist to heal. This depiction of human vulnerability and the need for kindness and empathy from others is a recurring theme in Cohen's work. In Sisters of Mercy, he captures the essence of the human condition and reminds us that we are all vulnerable beings in need of love and understanding.
The Quest for Spiritual Redemption
Another significant aspect of the Sisters of Mercy song is its exploration of the quest for spiritual redemption. The protagonist's journey to find shelter can also be seen as a quest for inner peace and spiritual solace. The line, 'They brought me their comfort and later they brought me this song,' suggests that the sisters not only provide physical shelter but also offer a sense of spiritual healing through their music. This sentiment is further emphasized in the final lines of the song, 'Thank you, sisters of mercy, I could not believe my good fortune. I never thought I'd be here, let alone, where I am.'
These lines suggest that the protagonist has found a sense of purpose and belonging in the presence of the sisters, which has brought him a sense of joy and gratitude. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the search for spiritual redemption and the peace that comes with finding it. Cohen's use of religious imagery, such as the 'sisters' and 'mercy,' adds to this interpretation and further reflects the spiritual aspect of the song.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sisters of Mercy by Leonard Cohen is a powerful and evocative song that reflects the human experience of vulnerability and the search for spiritual redemption. Through his poetic lyrics and haunting melody, Cohen captures the essence of these universal themes and reminds us of the importance of compassion and understanding in our lives. The song continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and remains a timeless reflection of the human condition. As Cohen himself once said, 'I try to give people a glimpse of their own divinity.' Sisters of Mercy is a testament to his ability to do just that, making it a timeless masterpiece in the world of music.
Introduction
Music has been a powerful medium for expressing human emotions and experiences since ancient times. It has the ability to touch the deepest parts of our souls and evoke a range of feelings within us. Throughout history, many musicians have used their art to delve into the complexities of human nature, and one such artist is Leonard Cohen. A legendary singer, songwriter, and poet, Cohen's work has captivated audiences for decades, with his hauntingly beautiful lyrics and melodies. One of his most iconic songs, Sisters of Mercy, has been a subject of fascination and interpretation for many years. This thesis aims to explore the impact of Cohen's Sisters of Mercy song, its lyrical content, and its significance as a reflection of human vulnerability and the quest for spiritual redemption.
Background
Sisters of Mercy was released in 1967 as part of Cohen's debut album, Songs of Leonard Cohen. It quickly gained popularity, becoming one of his most beloved and enduring songs. The song's lyrics tell the story of a man seeking shelter from the cold, who is taken in by two women known as the Sisters of Mercy. The man finds solace and comfort in their presence, and the song ends with him thanking the sisters for their kindness. On the surface, the song may seem simple and straightforward, but a closer analysis reveals a deeper meaning and a reflection of the human experience.
Human Vulnerability
The Sisters of Mercy is a poignant portrayal of human vulnerability. The protagonist in the song is in a state of despair, seeking refuge from the harshness of the world. His vulnerability is evident in the line, 'Oh, the sisters of mercy, they are not departed or gone. They were waiting for me when I thought that I just can't go on.' This line highlights the protagonist's sense of hopelessness and his belief that he cannot go on without the help of others. This sentiment is relatable to many individuals who have found themselves in moments of despair, seeking comfort and support from others.
Furthermore, the sisters themselves represent a symbol of compassion and mercy, offering a safe haven for the protagonist to heal. This depiction of human vulnerability and the need for kindness and empathy from others is a recurring theme in Cohen's work. In Sisters of Mercy, he captures the essence of the human condition and reminds us that we are all vulnerable beings in need of love and understanding.
The Quest for Spiritual Redemption
Another significant aspect of the Sisters of Mercy song is its exploration of the quest for spiritual redemption. The protagonist's journey to find shelter can also be seen as a quest for inner peace and spiritual solace. The line, 'They brought me their comfort and later they brought me this song,' suggests that the sisters not only provide physical shelter but also offer a sense of spiritual healing through their music. This sentiment is further emphasized in the final lines of the song, 'Thank you, sisters of mercy, I could not believe my good fortune. I never thought I'd be here, let alone, where I am.'
These lines suggest that the protagonist has found a sense of purpose and belonging in the presence of the sisters, which has brought him a sense of joy and gratitude. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the search for spiritual redemption and the peace that comes with finding it. Cohen's use of religious imagery, such as the 'sisters' and 'mercy,' adds to this interpretation and further reflects the spiritual aspect of the song.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sisters of Mercy by Leonard Cohen is a powerful and evocative song that reflects the human experience of vulnerability and the search for spiritual redemption. Through his poetic lyrics and haunting melody, Cohen captures the essence of these universal themes and reminds us of the importance of compassion and understanding in our lives. The song continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and remains a timeless reflection of the human condition. As Cohen himself once said, 'I try to give people a glimpse of their own divinity.' Sisters of Mercy is a testament to his ability to do just that, making it a timeless masterpiece in the world of music.
