Hydra, 11 February 1972

Typed letter signed (“Leonard”) to Marianne Ihlen, Hydra, 11 February 1972.

One page, 275 x 190mm, aerogram.

Zen Buddhism and a final word on their relationship. On a short break from touring, writing from Greece, from “the old house”—“feels good to be here, one of the last peaceful places left in my world." Despite the time and distance between them, the softness remains: "Have been thinking about you often these days, thoughts that have no shape in words. I just want you to know that I wish you well. What happened between us was not your fault or my fault, was meant to be, and we must forgive one another.”

Cohen had begun practicing Zen Buddhism in 1969 and over the years it became increasingly important to him. He writes here, “Was in a monastery for a few weeks, shaved my head, hope to go back after my European tour in the Spring. Can’t sing for money any more.”

He closes, "I feel Axel is in good shape and that makes me glad. I'd like to see you both." [With:] Typed letter from Marty Machat to Marianne, 30 November 1971, enclosing a blank check from Cohen's account, and two transmittal envelopes from Stranger Music, postmarked November 1971 and April 1972.

By descent from Marianne Ihlen.