A rework of Psalms…. ***
Sadly, I had not heard of Leonard Cohen until True Detective 2 used his song “Nevermind” as its theme song. The song intrigued me enough that I bought the album “Popular Problems”. After reading about Cohen I knew I had to buy some of his writings.
The Book of Mercy is billed as a modernization of Psalms. Cohen’s talent as a poet/writer is evident as he laments about life and its troubles. Written in a prose style, his poetic talent shines through.
While reading each selection, I was constantly reminded of the actual Psalms. This made me think of these as more of a reworking than as new reflections. The tone is somber and while there are 50 selections, they seemed to have one note. I am a wretch but God loves me anyway.
This was a hard book to review as Cohen is an amazing writer but this particular book did not demonstrate his talent very well.
This one, reluctantly, gets only three stars.
Gut Reaction Reviews 
Try strange music. That’s a fuller collection of his work. More best of is a fantastic Album too.
Thank you, just ordered it. Already have Beautiful Losers and The Favorite Game to read and review.