And Who Shall I Say Is Calling?

A Plea to Leonard Cohen

After the Israeli elections giving rise to an extreme right-wing government and following the Gaza war and the international criticism against
it, more and more voices were heard pleading for a cultural boycott
against Israel. The concert of Leonard Cohen, scheduled for September 25,
2009, became a test case to all sides in this debate. Cohen, known for his
human rights activities and support for the peace process, did not cancel
his concert, but suggested giving one in Ramallah as well. The Palestinian
resistance committee decided to turn down the performance in Ramallah.
Leonard Cohen performed in Tel Aviv and donated some of the proceeds
to Israeli-Palestinian peace organizations.
Dear Leonard,
It was two months ago that I had the privilege of seeing you perform in New York. You might say Id been waiting thirty-five years
for it. I remembered the first time Id heard your music in Israel,
and you could tell from my smile that tonight would be fine. As I
arrived outside the show, I met some old friendspartners in the

Published on Ynet, August 3, 2009.

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7/6/11 8:00 PM