Did Cohen Really Plant Trees?

Leonard Cohen, the legendary Canadian singer-songwriter, was also known for his work as a poet and novelist. He passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of music and literature that continues to inspire fans across the globe. However, there is one question that has been circulating for years: Did Cohen really plant trees?

The Origins of the Tree-Planting Myth

The myth that Cohen was an avid tree planter started to spread in the early 2000s, after an interview with Jian Ghomeshi on the CBC Radio show “Q”. During the interview, Ghomeshi mentioned that Cohen had spent time at a Zen Buddhist monastery in California in the 1990s, where he had planted trees as part of a volunteer program. Cohen confirmed this, saying that he had indeed planted trees and enjoyed the physical work.

However, things became a bit more complex when a 2016 New Yorker profile of Cohen claimed that the tree-planting story was a myth perpetuated by journalists. The author, David Remnick, suggested that the story had been taken out of context and exaggerated over the years, and that Cohen had only planted a few trees during his time at the monastery.

The Truth about Cohen and Tree Planting

So, what is the truth about Cohen and tree planting? It seems that the reality lies somewhere in between the two versions of the story. While Cohen did not spend months or years as a tree planter, he did take part in tree planting activities during his time at the Zen Center in the 1990s. In fact, there are photos of him planting trees at the center, proving that the activity was not a complete fabrication.

However, it is important to note that Cohen's tree planting activities were just one small part of his time at the center. He was there primarily to study meditation and Buddhism, and his work as a volunteer was something he did in addition to his spiritual pursuits.

The Importance of Tree Planting

While the specifics of Cohen's tree planting activities may be up for debate, there is no denying the importance of this work in general. Tree planting is an essential activity for preserving our environment and combating the effects of climate change. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, provide oxygen, and help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion. They also provide habitat for wildlife and can even help to improve human health and wellbeing.

For these reasons, tree planting has become a popular activity for individuals and organizations around the world. Whether planting trees in a local park or participating in reforestation efforts in a different country, tree planting is a way to have a positive impact on the planet and protect our natural resources.

The Legacy of Leonard Cohen

Ultimately, the question of whether Cohen really planted trees is not the most important aspect of his legacy. What is more significant is the impact he had on the world through his creative work. Cohen's music, poetry, and prose continue to touch the hearts and minds of people across generations and cultures. His wisdom, wit, and compassion are sorely missed, but his legacy lives on through his words and his example.

In the end, whether Cohen planted a handful of trees or an entire forest is not what matters. What matters is that he was a man who believed in doing good in the world and who inspired others to do the same. That is a legacy worth celebrating and emulating.