"Who By Fire" is a profound and haunting song written by Leonard Cohen, released on his 1974 album "New Skin for the Old Ceremony." The song is inspired by the Jewish liturgical poem "Unetanneh Tokef," which is recited during the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, reflecting on the uncertainties of life and the inevitability of death.

Lyrically, "Who By Fire" delves into themes of mortality, fate, and the human condition. The title phrase "Who By Fire" refers to the central question posed in the liturgical poem, contemplating the various ways in which people may meet their end – whether by fire, water, famine, or other means.

Cohen's lyrics are deeply introspective and philosophical, exploring the fragility of life and the existential questions that accompany it. The imagery he employs is vivid and evocative, painting scenes of uncertainty and vulnerability while also hinting at moments of transcendence and redemption.

Musically, "Who By Fire" features a sparse yet haunting arrangement, with Cohen's gravelly vocals accompanied by acoustic guitar and subtle orchestration. The song's melody is melancholic and meditative, perfectly complementing the weighty themes explored in the lyrics.

The repetitive nature of the song's structure, with its recurring refrain of "Who By Fire" followed by descriptions of various forms of demise, creates a sense of solemnity and introspection, inviting listeners to contemplate their own mortality and the mysteries of existence.

Overall, "Who By Fire" is a poignant and thought-provoking song that showcases Leonard Cohen's mastery as both a lyricist and a composer. Its timeless themes and evocative imagery continue to resonate with listeners, making it one of Cohen's most enduring and powerful compositions.

Lyrics:

And who by fire, who by water
Who in the sunshine, who in the night time
Who by high ordeal, who by common trial
Who in your merry merry month of may
Who by very slow decay
And who shall I say is calling?

And who in her lonely slip, who by barbiturate
Who in these realms of love, who by something blunt
Who by avalanche, who by powder
Who for his greed, who for his hunger
And who shall I say is calling?

And who by brave assent, who by accident
Who in solitude, who in this mirror
Who by his lady's command, who by his own hand
Who in mortal chains, who in power
And who shall I say is calling?

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Leonard Cohen
Who by Fire lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC