Rags of Light

“Owing to his own familiarity with the biblical landscape as a Christian pastor, Brian Walsh ably shows that Cohen is best understood not as a secular saint, but as a post-secular poet who spoke both prophetic and priestly truths. The many Cohen fans who are also people of faith or spiritual seekers will find much to enjoy in this book.”


—Christian Raab, OSB, associate professor of theology, Saint Meinrad Seminary





“Brian Walsh knows that the highest order of interpretation is responsive making. In Rags of Light, Walsh not only recognizes and argues for Leonard Cohen’s prophetic and priestly role, but makes Cohen’s music a usable liturgy—one profoundly helpful in our cultural moment. I emerge from its pages in song and prayer—ready to make my way through a landscape of both wonder and ruin—and not unaccompanied.”


—Tiffany Eberle Kriner, associate professor of English, Wheaton College