The Meaning Behind The Song: Light as the Breeze by Billy Joel

TitleLight as the Breeze
ArtistBilly Joel
Writer/ComposerLeonard Cohen
AlbumGreatest Hits, Volume III (1997)
Release DateAugust 19, 1997
GenreRock
ProducerDavid Thoener, Joe “The Butcher” Nicolo, Danny Kortchmar, Billy Joel, Mick Jones & Phil Ramone

“Light as the Breeze” is the last song and the third cover on Billy Joel’s 1997 compilation, Greatest Hits, Volume III. This song was originally written by Leonard Cohen and was recorded as a tribute to him on the album Tower of Song in 1995. Although it was never released as a single, it stands out as a powerful and introspective track on the compilation.

The lyrics of “Light as the Breeze” evoke deep emotions and explore themes of vulnerability, longing, and self-reflection. The song begins with the image of a woman standing naked, symbolizing both physical and emotional transparency. She is described as being “light as the breeze,” suggesting an ethereal quality and the ability to move freely and effortlessly.

Billy Joel’s rendition of the song captures the essence of Cohen’s poetic style and adds his own unique vocal and musical interpretation. The line “And she comes to you light as the breeze” is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the power of the woman’s presence and the impact she has on the protagonist.

The lyrics also touch upon the themes of worship and submission. It suggests that it doesn’t matter how one chooses to worship, as long as they are humble and willing to submit themselves. The line “As long as you’re down on your knees” speaks to the idea of surrendering oneself to a higher power or to another individual.

For me, “Light as the Breeze” holds a personal significance. It served as a source of comfort and solace during a difficult period of my life. The lyrics resonated deeply with my own experiences of longing for love and healing. The line “O baby I waited so long for your kiss, for something to happen, oh something like this” beautifully captures the yearning for a connection that can bring about a sense of completeness and fulfillment.

The song takes a darker turn in the following verses, as it delves into themes of imprisonment and forgiveness. The protagonist describes feeling weak and harmless, trapped in a metaphorical harness. The line “And it ain’t exactly prison, but you’ll never be forgiven for whatever you’ve done with the keys” suggests a sense of guilt that weighs heavily on the protagonist’s conscience.

The imagery of darkness and snowing further enhances the somber mood of the song. The protagonist realizes that they have been pretending for far too long and that they are tired of bending to the expectations of others. The line “I’ve lived too long on my knees” symbolizes a breaking point, a moment of realization that it is time to stand up and reclaim their own power.

However, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope. The song describes a graceful dance performed by the woman, which momentarily softens the protagonist’s hardened heart. The line “And she’s naked, but that’s just a tease, and you turn in disgust from your hatred and from your love” suggests a conflicted emotional state. The protagonist acknowledges their own capacity for both love and hatred, and the tension between these opposing forces.

The final verses of the song introduce the idea of redemption and healing. The woman reveals that beneath her alluring exterior, there is still a vulnerable human being. The line “Drink deeply, pilgrim, but don’t forget there’s still a woman beneath this resplendent chemise” highlights the importance of looking beyond surface appearances, and embracing the complexities and vulnerabilities of others.

In the end, the protagonist finds a moment of peace and redemption. They kneel in reverence, feeling healed and at ease. The blessings that come from heaven offer a fleeting sense of wholeness and liberation from their inner turmoil.

Billy Joel’s rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Light as the Breeze” captures the depth and complexity of the lyrics, touching on themes of longing, vulnerability, and self-discovery. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love, forgiveness, and the pursuit of emotional liberation. Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless piece of musical storytelling.

Sources:
Album title: Greatest Hits, Volume III (1997)
Produced By David Thoener, Joe “The Butcher” Nicolo, Danny Kortchmar, Billy Joel, Mick Jones & Phil Ramone
Written By Leonard Cohen
Release Date August 19, 1997

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