From October 25 to November 5, 2024, French author and biographer Christophe Lebold captivated Canadian audiences on a rich tour of events and gatherings. Marking the release of the English edition of his book : “Leonard Cohen: The Man Who Saw the Angels Fall” (ECW Press, 2024), he traveled across Canadian cities, from Toronto to Ottawa and Montreal, to share with audiences the depth and complexity of Leonard Cohen’s work, an icon of Canadian culture.
A Literary and Musical Journey
The tour began at York University in Toronto, where Christophe Lebold invited musicology students to delve into the many facets of Cohen’s artistry. More than a simple reading, his talk immersed the audience in Cohen’s poetic and spiritual universe, touching on themes of faith, solitude, and the search for meaning.
In Ottawa, at the Ottawa International Writers Festival, Lebold engaged with a passionate audience, accompanied by the musical talents of Michael Dubue and Rebecca Noëlle. This event was followed by a talk at the University of Ottawa, where he deepened his unique connection to Leonard Cohen, sharing personal anecdotes and insights that shape his biographical approach.
Memorable Encounters in Toronto
Returning to Toronto, Lebold joined Michael Posner, Cohen expert, at the Spadina Theatre of the Alliance Française de Toronto. Together, they discussed Cohen’s youth, literary and spiritual influences, and the profound impact of his work on entire generations. The event drew a diverse audience eager to discover new dimensions of the singer-songwriter.
One of the most anticipated stops took place at Holy Blossom Temple, where nearly 400 attendees in person and 115 online joined an exceptional evening. In an atmosphere rich with emotion, Christophe Lebold delved into Cohen’s spirituality, highlighting his connection to Judaism and his interest in other religious traditions. The following day, he met with students at Toronto’s Lycée Français, offering insights into his creative process and providing a rare look at the life of a biographer.
The tour concluded at the Toronto Public Library, where Lebold engaged with readers on Cohen’s cultural legacy. This enriching exchange emphasized the artist’s lasting influence on the Canadian collective imagination.
Media and Cultural Recognition
Christophe Lebold’s visit attracted considerable media attention across Canada, with coverage from Le Devoir, Global News Montreal, Radio-Canada Toronto, and other key media outlets. These stories amplified the power of Cohen’s work and brought new insights into Lebold’s own contributions.
An initiative supported by the French Embassy in Canada
Supported by the French Embassy in Canada in collaboration with ECW Press, this tour once again promoted cultural exchanges between France and Canada. More than a series of lectures, it offered the Canadian public an immersion in the world of Leonard Cohen, reaffirming the mission of the Toronto branch of the Embassy’s Cultural Service to promote French and Francophone voices on the local cultural scene.
Through this vibrant tribute, Christophe Lebold reminded us of Leonard Cohen’s unique place in the hearts of Canadians, and touched minds with his sensitive, passionate approach.
