Snaga robova

"The Energy of Slaves" is one of the most essential and raw collections of poetry by the Canadian singer-songwriter and poet Leonard Cohen. The Croatian edition translated and sung by Ljerka Mifko was published by the Zagreb publishing house Mladost in 1981. This collection, originally published in 1972, marked a radical turn in Cohen's poetic oeuvre—a departure from the earlier, flowery romantic style toward a stark, direct, and uncompromising expression. In this collection, Cohen deals with the myth of the artist, deconstructs his own public image and talks about the themes of addiction, emotional slavery, sexuality, alienation and the dark side of human nature. The title of the piece suggests the paradoxical strength that comes from subjugation and inner captivity — whether it's slavery to one's own passions, societal expectations, or failed love relationships. The verses are concise, bare and without unnecessary decorations, imbued with bitter humor, self-irony and provocative images. In the collection, Cohen does not offer simple solutions or spiritual consolation, but mercilessly exposes his own vulnerability. "Slave Power" remains a striking testimony to the struggle for authenticity and freedom within a world that constantly strives to tame the individual.