Ballet of Lepers: Novel and Stories

Before `Hallelujah`, `Suzanne` and `Famous Blue Raincoat`, the young Leonard Cohen was a gifted writer of prose. In this previously unpublished work, readers will discover the magic that animated Cohen`s unique voice was present from the very beginning. A Ballet of Lepers comprises Cohen`s first novel and short stories, written between 1956 in Montreal and 1961, when he had settled on the island of Hydra in Greece. The titular story follows a reclusive man whose life is invigorated when his grandfather comes to live with him. The book explores themes that would permeate Cohen`s later work, from shame and unworthiness to sexual desire and longing. Meditative, surprising and provocative, A Ballet of Lepers reveals the great artist like never before.