Hydra

 

Hydra, a small Greek island nestled in the Aegean Sea, holds a special place in the story of Leonard Cohen. This enchanting retreat became a sanctuary for the young poet and songwriter, a place where he discovered love, created some of his most significant works, and lived a life of simplicity that shaped his artistic identity. Cohen’s connection to Hydra was more than geographical; it was emotional, spiritual and deeply transformative.

 

A Journey to the Island

In 1960, at the age of 26, Leonard Cohen left his hometown of Montreal to explore Europe, hoping to immerse himself in the continent’s rich cultural and literary traditions. His travels eventually brought him to Hydra, a car-free island known for its rugged beauty, whitewashed houses and vibrant artistic community. Attracted by the affordable cost of living and the bohemian lifestyle, Cohen decided to stay, renting a modest home that would become his refuge for the next decade.

Life on Hydra

Hydra was a world away from the hustle of city life, offering Cohen an idyllic setting for creativity and introspection.

• The Simplicity of Living
  On Hydra, Cohen embraced a pared-down lifestyle. His home lacked running water and he relied on a donkey for transport, but the simplicity of his surroundings allowed him to focus on his craft.

• An Artistic Haven
  The island’s bohemian community of writers, artists and musicians became a source of inspiration and camaraderie. Cohen found kindred spirits in Hydra’s creative circles, where ideas flowed as freely as the local wine.

• Marianne Ihlen
  During his early days on Hydra, Cohen met Marianne Ihlen, the Norwegian woman who would become his muse, lover and lifelong friend. Their relationship, immortalised in songs like So Long, Marianne and Bird on the Wire, was deeply intertwined with their shared life on the island.

Hydra’s Influence on Cohen’s Work

The tranquil beauty of Hydra and its timeless way of life left an indelible mark on Cohen’s artistic output.

• Poetry and Prose
  During his time on Hydra, Cohen published his novel Beautiful Losers (1966) and the poetry collection Flowers for Hitler (1964). The island’s landscapes, rhythms and characters seeped into his work, lending it a sensuous and reflective quality.

• Songwriting Beginnings
  While Cohen had initially seen himself as a writer, his experiences on Hydra nudged him toward music. With his guitar in hand and the island as his muse, he began crafting songs that blended poetic depth with melodic simplicity (a style that would later define his career).

• Marianne’s Legacy
  The deep bond Cohen shared with Marianne on Hydra became a recurring theme in his songs, infusing his music with tenderness and nostalgia. Even decades later, their time on the island resonated in his performances and interviews.

Hydra’s Unique Allure

The island of Hydra was more than a backdrop to Cohen’s story, it was a character in its own right.

• The Light and the Landscape
  Hydra’s crystal-clear waters, sun-drenched terraces and dramatic cliffs created a setting of unparalleled beauty. This light and openness mirrored the clarity Cohen sought in his art and life.

• Timelessness and Tradition
  The absence of cars and the preservation of traditional architecture gave Hydra a timeless quality, a contrast to the rapidly modernising world Cohen left behind in North America.

• A Community of Dreamers
  Hydra’s community of expatriates and locals offered a unique blend of cultures and ideas, fostering the kind of intellectual and creative exchanges that shaped Cohen’s worldview.

A Relationship That Endured

Although Cohen eventually left Hydra to pursue his music career, the island remained a touchstone for him throughout his life.

• Return Visits
  Over the years, Cohen returned to Hydra to reconnect with its serene beauty and the memories it held. It was a place where he could recharge and reflect away from the demands of fame.

• Hydra’s Legacy in His Music
  The songs Cohen wrote during and about his time on Hydra are enduring testaments to the island’s impact on his artistry. Tracks like Bird on the Wire, inspired by the island’s telephone wires, stand as iconic examples of the creative fusion Hydra facilitated.

An Eternal Bond

Even after Leonard Cohen’s passing, Hydra continues to celebrate his legacy. Fans and admirers visit the island to see his former home, retrace his steps, and experience the tranquillity that inspired one of the greatest artists of our time.