Lyrical Review of Bob Dylan's "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)"

[@CalicoSilver]

JFK was assassinated on Nov. 22, 1963....not December......my bad....

[@GlenKellawayfromthebasement]

For a second I thought you were a conspiracy theorist..LOL

[@CalicoSilver]

Oh, you have no idea, Glen! Haha!!!! ;-)

[@dennisg.582]

Dylan once said in an interview (80' or 90's) that he doesn't know where songs like this came from. That he couldn't write like this today. That is a sign of GENIUS!!!

[@CalicoSilver]

I don't think Dylan overthinks his lyrical talent as much as we fans do, haha! He knows his limitations and doesn't mind letting us know that he knows it. I love that about him.

[@stevenmeyer9674]

​@@CalicoSilver I used to think he sometimes f*cked with us. Throwing meaningless words in a line, or a phrase just because they rhymed . He always did have a bit of con in him.

[@CalicoSilver]

@@stevenmeyer9674 Indeed. I've often joked that if I ever got the chance to interview Dylan, the first question I'd ask is, "You've been f#$%ing with us, haven't you, Bob?"

[@dennisg.582]

@@stevenmeyer9674 Listen to 'hard rain' or it's 'alright ma' then say that

[@johnmichaelpatrick369]

I'm just 40, but to me this is the greatest song ever written !!! My favorite poem ever, and, musically, just a blues in D, with a great bass line... It's really fun to play !

[@CalicoSilver]

I certainly think this is one of Dylan's finest moments in songwriting, that's for sure. Definitely one of my top 10 (and maybe top 5) Dylan songs! Thanks for your comment. Jeff

[@H.RLarson]

I discovered DYLAN at age 14, i played this song over and over and over, i wanted to understand every line, it became my roadmap to how to live my life

[@alfonsocevallos4189]

This is literally me whenever I speak to friends about this masterpiece, arguably Dylan's best song ever. Great review, I think everybody should at least once in his/her life listen to the song.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks for your comment, Alfonso. I agree - Dylan doesn't get better than this. What a superb work of art for such a young man. Amazing. Cheers. Jeff

[@maxout7306]

Appreciative onlooker. Excellent upload and thanks for your dissection and sharing. As a BBC presenter once said; "Bob Dylan is an artist that deserves the recognition far beyond that of a pop star."

[@CalicoSilver]

Thank you very much for your kind and encouraging comment. Yes, I sincerely hope (and predict) that Dylan will also be in anthologies of great poetry one day.

[@anastaziajade4604]

I love how you break down the structure of the song. Great job!

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, I appreciate it. These are rewarding videos to make but they kinda scare me to make them also, haha!

[@philfranco7598]

Listened to this Masterpiece over and over while serving in USMC in Vietnam. Followed the Master, Bob Dylan, since early 60’s. Long live Bob Dylan…….. Your interpretation very interesting. The meaning is different for all and the same for many.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks for your comment, Phil. Cheers. Jeff

[@electricfence61]

Loved that passionate stroll through the lyrics Jeff. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts with us. Those lyrics made me think about the number of times over the years Dylan himself has gone with his heart in what often looked like a self sabotaging exercise. Only to confound us all once again with another work of beauty and genius.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks Mick. Yeah, great point about Dylan often going down paths that are risky - seems most of my favorite artists do just that. Thanks again. Jeff

[@tendai1058]

I don’t think you understand how much you helped me with my English presentation thank you!!!!!

[@CalicoSilver]

Good to hear. Thanks. Jeff

[@Herzeleydt_Diesentrueb]

Thanx for this one, pal. That poem has been going round and around my head - 59 years. And you added a few new ( for me ) perspectives. I regard the "song" as the culmination point of post WWII poetry, carved into granite with fiery hammer and chisel...

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks! Yes this is one stunningly powerful lyric. I still can’t believe a man in his 20s wrote this stuff. I was writing a bit of poetry in my 20s, and I think some of it was fairly good, but it was mostly about inward looking existential expression that most 20-something people engage in, and not nearly the powerfully observant stuff that Dylan was putting out by the notebooks-full at the time. But then again, I never delved inti mind-expanding drugs, so…. Haha!

[@georgecoventry8441]

Probably the single most astounding set of lyrics that Bob Dylan ever wrote, and it's a masterpiece. I started listening to this song in 1969, and it contains my favorite Dylan line ever: "He not busy being born is busy dying." Way too many people are busy dying....slowly...that's their way of staying "safe". The funny thing is that just around that time a set of politically motivated folkies were criticizing Dylan for "abandoning protest songs" (songs about very specific issues), while he was writing incredible songs like this one that protested EVERYTHING. Virtually every crazy and deluded and manipulated thing going on in society gets exposed in this song. All the greed, fear, ambition, competition, hatred, conformity, blind obedience to authority, blind adherence to party line...he nails it and exposes it and makes the decision to walk away from it. He's making his own declaration of independence from all of that. Such people are considered quite dangerous by "the authorities" and the power structure, and sometimes they do end up being killed because they would not conform. When I was young, I didn't have the religious background to be much aware of the Biblical references which abound in Bob's work, but I'm well aware of them now. Every literal and prosaic thing that there is in life also has a spiritual meaning and dimension working all through it, and I know that now. There's one part in one verse that says, "Alone you stand, with nobody near, when a trembling, distant voice unclear startles your sleeping ears to hear that somebody thinks they've really FOUND you." I think maybe that refers to someone thinking that they're "in love with you". A lot of people figured they were in love with Bob, and they wanted to get close to him. And so..."a question in your nerves is lit" (Could this person's love be the one thing that SAVES me???) Yet, you know there is no answer fit...to satisfy...ensure you not to quit (thinking for yourself) to keep it in your mind and NOT forget: that it is NOT he or she or them or it that you belong to!" In other words, "falling in love" with someone will not be the magic solution that sets your whole life free. And it's a big illusion that it could. The problem of being free is a lot larger than that, and you can only be truly free by setting yourself mentally free.......................not by finding a new lover and a "special relationship" that will save you. That can be an easy trap to fall into. I think that's what he might have been talking about in those lines. Again, the rhyming pattern he uses is fascinating. It's very structured, and it works powerfully well.

[@CalicoSilver]

Probably my favorite Dylan song. Brilliant lyrics that are relatively direct and to the point, and yes I agree with you completely about the "declaration of independence" part - to my ears, Dylan is all about independence and liberty, things I care very very much about. Thanks for another excellent comment, George!

[@anthonylewis5873]

Hey George, 👋 by far the most inclusive explanation of this historical Dylan song. I'm 70 years old and I can see in the interviews from England of young ladies trying to tell him that alot of his writing comes from the bible. I'm actually putting (Holy Spirit) in to what he says instead of bleeding, and (Jesus Christ) in the third chorus when he says "I got nothing to live up to": when I play and sing it. Bob Dylan is a transformation of Mr. Woody Guthrey . Being that he went through Woody's songs looked and act like him. From their He, Him Holy Spirit mysteriously entered Bob Dylan to assess him in his

[@merzeporgoher]

Although I do love this song so much but I have to disagree for I sincerely think that ( Another side of Bob Dylan ) was his best album ever and especially ( Chimes of freedom ) Far between sundown's finish And midnight broken toll We ducked inside a doorway thunder crashing As majestic bells of bolts Struck shadows in the sound seeming to be the chimes of freedom flashing ! I mean for Christ sake ! Not even Steven Spielberg could draw such a cinematic view with all the hollywood budget! Bruce Springsteen who is also an amazing lyricist and might be the second best ever, right after Dylan, Performed this song in Germany and his performance was great but kind of hopeful, and I'm saying this cause when you listen to Dylan's version, ( which I consider to be the best ) Dylan makes the song sound terrifying like it literally scares me Another one of Dylan's greatest songs ever which unfortunately is not very popular even among Dylan fans is MY BACK PAGES That song is pure poetry with unimaginable poetic themes, that I still can't really understand what he meant writing that stuff ! Cause I get a new interpretation for each line everytime I give it a listen, IDK about you native English speakers but as a second language speaker It just seems impossible to be interpreted which makes me love it even more lol P.S If you guys can really understand what's he's talking about in (My back pages) then please comment your interpretation and let me know

[@georgecoventry8441]

@@merzeporgoher - I agree that "Chimes of Freedom" and "My Back Pages" are among his finest lyrical works. Both amazing songs! I think what "My Back Pages" is about is this: Bob had gone through a period of intense concern about political matters of the time (war, civil rights, etc), most notably in the songs on the album "The Times They Are A-Changing", and also in some of the songs on "Freewheelin'". He later came to feel he'd been naive to see things in such stark terms of "black and white" or "good versus evil", and he turned away from the overtly political protest songs about social issues to writing more personal songs...as was evident on his 4rth album (Another Side of). So it's about how much he changed his outlook in a couple of years. His fans wanted him to keep writing more "protest" songs, but he wanted instead to write personal songs, and so that is what he did...and this upset quite a few of his fans at the time.

[@merzeporgoher]

@@georgecoventry8441 I do know about this since his whole album ( another side of Bob Dylan) was nothing but an explanation to his fans cause most had taken him for a Prophet ! He even wrote a whole song mocking this misbelief ( I shall be free No.10 ) I'm just average Common too I'm just like him The same as you I'm everybody's brother and son I ain't different from anyone It ain't no use in talking to me It's just the same as talking to you...... This song still makes me laugh every time I think about it , cause the media and interviewers back then used to ask him some deep profound philosophical questions! Questions they would never ask another singer/song writer about, and he wanted for people to see him as a musician and nothing more. So he had to make that album as an explanation but apart from drifting off this subject of my back pages, when I said that I didn't understand the song, I was talking about the literal meaning of the lines cause even if you take em literally, they wouldn't make sense! And that's what I wish to understand one day although it seems impossible unless he himself decides to explain what he meant in each line.

[@ericosullivan6575]

Although I have many neighbours that have a beautiful garden, and they take huge pride in them, and they really make my neighbourhood light up and thank god for that. But I know a few who decorate their gardens to compete with the others, and almost show it off if that makes any sense. That line about flowers being nothing more than something someone invests in always sends me down that rabbit hole of thought. An almost societal tension that turns nature into something to be invested in. I dunno, maybe I'm babbling. Amazing stuff again man, love these analysis. Best one yet!!

[@CalicoSilver]

Yep, sounds about right. Amazing. Thanks!

[@shmuelben2412]

Wow great job Jeff Definitely one of my favorite songs Because of you I understand this song better I was born in France, I live in Israel, English is not my language Really appreciate your work and the time you spend analyzing the songs Cowards love company I know a few like that Cheers ..JEFF

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, Shmuel!! I really appreciate your kind and encouraging words, and it makes me happy to know that other people enjoy these videos. Cheers! Jeff

[@harrylazard805]

Excellent breakdown of the structure of the song. I'm not equipped to analyze every line like you can so I got the gist of the song and just listened in amazement at how Dylan could elaborate his feelings about society in verse. I have a better appreciation for the song now that you went through the details. I remember hearing or reading that Dylan says now in retrospect he couldn't write that song today. He doesn't know how those lines came to him. That opening bit about jumps in technology creating intellectual vacuums sounds a lot like today, the unusual thing about it this time is the sheep think they are the intellectuals....

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, Harry, and thanks for this great comment. You are so right - the techno "geniuses" of today actually think they ARE the geniuses of today. Amazing, isn't it?

[@weshallbesaved5137]

Thank you for breaking this down and your thoughtfulness 💖. Merry Christmas..HE lives...

[@CalicoSilver]

Thank you also for taking the time to comment so kindly. I appreciate your encouraging words. And Merry Christmas to you also. Cheers. Jeff

[@toussaid5340]

the greatest lyrical masterpiece of a song ever

[@RandyforRoyals]

Excellent review of a classic song. I'm amazed at how detailed you can get. I hadn't thought of the JFK connection. I love your diligence with dissecting the lyrics. Take care. --Randy

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, Randy! I enjoy doing these, but they are kinda scary to do them too. Haha!

[@hexelis7366]

All of this could be interpreted for today in 2021, its kind of eerie

[@CalicoSilver]

Indeed!!

[@warrenhughes911]

Wow..you smart..I love it. Big Dylan fan

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks Warren! Jeff

[@Dr.DaveRobbo2407]

I'd like to support Calico Silver's analysis with my own (based on a phenomenological method of interpretation) Cause and Effect Analysis: Observed Negative Effects or dissonance factors: Polarisation, self-centredness, self- preservation, commitment phobia, jealousy, inauthentic behaviour Underlying Causes: Judgmentalism, Disempowerment, Loneliness, External threats Coping Mechanism adopted (existential response) in an effort to deal with the underlying causes of discontent: Resolve to live authentically, search for meaning and perspective, exercise right to free choice 🙏

[@rhoff7272]

I see Velvet Underground and Dylan records, and The Good the bad and the Ugly in this shot. We might be twins separated at birth. This video was a great breakdown of one of my favorite songs, very well done.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks!

[@robertburr5336]

Somebody here is the master of all lyrics Dylan. Good job!

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks Robert. I love to appreciatively attempt to interpret Dylan’s lyrics, yes, while simultaneously acknowledging that I probably have no idea about what I am saying. Haha! Still, it is fun, and I appreciate your kind and encouraging comments. Cheers. Jeff

[@anoccasionaldream]

Wow! It's absolutely amazing song really! Somehow I didn't get too deep into it before and thanks to your review I rediscovered it now!

[@CalicoSilver]

Cool! Thanks for your comment.

[@kalimbamagic]

I’ve known this song for over 50 years and have loved it. My wife just heard it for the first time today and we enjoyed listening to your entire video. Are you a teacher? “ He’s really good. I listened to all of that! Chuckle”

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks! I really appreciate your kind words. Yes I was a college lecturer for 20 years.

[@GlenKellawayfromthebasement]

I love these lyric reviews...really make me think...The verses are very suspenseful and make you sit up, kind of tense. But then he sings it’s alright I’m only....telling you it’s not that bad..just a flesh wound...great video..I will be back to absorb more...awesome job Jeff..👍👍❤️❤️Glen

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks Glen. I feel kinda “iffy” about doing these because I could really be SO far off, haha!!

[@GlenKellawayfromthebasement]

You should be proud..I absolutely love these reviews..you sure get me thinking..

[@CalicoSilver]

@@GlenKellawayfromthebasement Thanks, Glen. It is fun, but scary, because interpretations can change over time. But what the heck, I just love talking about this man's music and lyrics so much. I appreciate your always kind words and encouragement, Glen. Jeff

[@larrycordell3451]

Great interpretations here! Reading Dylan’s memoir and listening to his “60 Minutes” interview, you see Dylan’s frustrations for getting called a prophet and a leader of some revolution. In this song he expressed the futility and the hypocrisy of all this. As he said in “My Back Pages”: In a soldier’s stance I aimed my guard At the mongrel dogs who tea ch Fearing not I’d become my enemy In the instance that I preach. To Dylan all he ever wanted to be was a musician. And that’s what he did. I think about this song when he won the Nobel Prize for literature as perhaps the best example of his writing. While Dylan inspired many musicians, no one else in popular music wrote anything even close to Dylan’s songs.

[@CalicoSilver]

What blows me away, Larry, is that Dylan has been singing and commenting about his frustration at being called a prophet and voice of his generation, etc., ever since at least the Another Side album. But people never pay any attention to what he is saying. Here they are, claiming that he is the voice of his generation and saying how much his words have meant to them, but they never seem to even listen to what he is saying! It must drive Dylan crazy. He told Ed Bradley in that interview (and you could see the frustration pouring out of his face as he did so) that "my songs are not sermons" and then he went on to talk a bit about Only A Pawn In Their Game, not as a commentary on the social climate of the times but as a commentary on the alliterative nature of his lyric....i.e., his WRITING, not his "message". How much more clear could he repeatedly be about this matter? Yet how much do you want to bed that Ed Bradley walked away from that interview with his opinion of Dylan as a prophet and seer unchanged? Haha. Amazing. Yes, Dylan is the greatest poet of our lifetime. No doubt about it, at least from my POV. I posted a video last year or two called "Why Dylan Deserved the Nobel Prize" or something like that. You might enjoy what I had to say about it. But yes, I agree 100% that NO ONE comes close to Dylan's lyrical genius. Some great lyricists out there, but he stands alone. Thanks for your comment, Larry. Cheers! Jeff

[@knockedoutloaded279]

@@CalicoSilver Johnny mercer was as brilliant as Bob in a way.. But he wasn't a poet like Bob.. And his lyrics were not as timeless as bobs.

[@PaulSchuster-yj4zb]

Isn't amazing how these words written in the 60's are so appropriate when describing today's cancel culture and woke generation.

[@CalicoSilver]

Indeed. It appears mankind never learns anything. And that’s putting it mildly.

[@PurpleO-87]

preach brother. the church of Dylan lives.

[@AutisticusMaximus-hx7pp]

you deserve a nobel prize for YouTubing.

[@CalicoSilver]

Ha! I am flattered! Thanks very much. 😁

[@rocky-o]

another great reading my friend....how many appreciate...how many can relate...how many will debate...how many shall engage...it's alright. jeff..you're just the messenger.....peace...rocky

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, Rocky. It was fun. Jeff

[@dfreak5642]

Really really hope to see you again you are at your best i think your very influential. could not hardly believe someone would take on this monster this dragon of a song but you did it.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks so much for your kind and encouraging comment! I definitely plan on posting more Dylan lyric review videos soon. Thanks again. You made my day. 😁

[@Slothrop67]

Jeff. Not much comment from me on this one. You nailed it mon frere! Bravo! Quick aside here. My parents enrolled me in Catholic School from grades 1 thru 9. My dad pulled me aside one day and said "This school is academicly top-notch however, if anyone comes up to you and says that they want to help save your soul and discuss Jesus Christ with you; I want you to do 3 things. Grab your balls, grab your wallet and run like hell because they are either after one or the other or both!" I miss the old man's wisdom.

[@CalicoSilver]

Haha! I was sent to a church-based private school for four years (from age 9 to 12) that my parents put me in because of the increasing racial riots and unrest in the public schools in the American south at the time. I don't regret it at all, even though it was very very strict (no talking, no long hair, sit up straight with knees touching, etc.) and we were forced to memorize Bible verses, etc., because it instilled in me a familiarity and (I think) an understanding of that book which has helped greatly in my interpretation of Dylan's lyrics (and many other literary interests). I was also a member of a quite cultish (not even close to Jim Jones level, but very controlling nevertheless) church from the age of 18 to 21 and as absurdly asinine as part of that experience was at the time, I don't even regret that because (1) I met my lifelong best friend there (he and I both left that cult at the same time back in 1983) and (2) I learned just how much people can take the Bible and twist it in all different ways to their own purposeful ends, including the "apostle Paul" himself, hahaha, how absurd! Bottom line: as ridiculous as some of my church-and-churchschool-experiences were, many were very good and I learned a LOT from them that I'd've never learned had I not experienced them. I've not been a member of any church since 1983 and likely never will be, but I don't regret the education (both good and bad) that I got from it all. It has given me an insight into things that others who haven't gone throught those experiences (or those who do go through them without questioning them at all) do not have.

[@Slothrop67]

@@CalicoSilver I agree with you completely. I consider myself agnostic (I have a good friend that calls me a shameless fence rider). But when it comes to the bible....I think that it's vital. In many many ways. One being a much deeper understanding of culture, art and spirituality. If I were to teach literature of any period, the first book that were going to study is the Bible. That being said, I'm an incurable smart ass. I would go home everyday with chalk marks on the side of the head from one priest or another hurling a thick stick of chalk at my head because I would as some smart ass question like " now how exactly did Mary get pregnant? I mean how did that work physically father?" Next thing I know, it wham! Just above the temple. And then hilarity would insue. But get this! My wife's father was a radical fire and brimstone snake holding radical pentecostal preacher. I absolutely loved to watch him preach. I didn't agree with one syllable that he spoke but his preaching was riveting. I'd leave saying "now THAT was a fuc*ing church service!"

[@enterthedragon7685]

Sir, english isn't even my 1st language. Trying my bit to learn . Your interpretation at 12:40 blew my mind away. Your way of explaining things made me think of language as such an interesting medium to put forward ideas. Subscribing right away. Could you please suggest me a few books kindly for a start. Thank you.truely inspired. 🙏🏻

[@CalicoSilver]

Thank you for your kind comment. I appreciate it. As for Dylan books, there are so many to choose from. But the only one I really care to still own is his book of lyrics. To me, they say all I need to know about Bob Dylan.

[@enterthedragon7685]

@CalicoSilver thank you. I'm sharing your content with my friends. Please do keep uploading. I've listened to your music too. Amazing! Thank you once again.🙏🏻

[@dhirenram4971]

So glad you did this. Masterful interpretation as always. This is one of his songs I've loved even before thinking about what it meant. The way he sings it with that hypnotizing chord progression always gets me which is why I've never really cared to sit down and think about what it meant. I've always put this song off as plain cynicism but I never really believed that knowing the complexity of Dylan and how he wouldn't be bound to such one-dimensional views. Your interpretation of it is by far the best I've heard. Can't wait for the next one. Btw i found that St John the Apostle reference to be interesting since he mentions him in My Own Version of You.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, Dhiren. Like I always say, an interpretation of a line or a whole lyric can change at any time, so I am always a bit nervous about posting my current thoughts on one of these songs....usually within a few days I wish I'd've said something a bit different about a line or stanza, etc.. Oh well, just having fun. And as for the St. John reference, Dhiren, yes there a dozen or more references from the book of John that could possibly be gleaned from these lyrics. John, Matthew, Luke, James, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Genesis.....the Bible is all over this song, IF one hears it that way.....but not necessarily in the way others would hear it, I realize that....I try to be careful not to turn everything into Biblical references ALL the time, haha! But yeah, it is clear that Dylan knew the Bible well and that knowledge found its expression in so many of his lyrics, going all the way back to his early years. Great song! And great coment from you - thanks. Jeff

[@kenkaplan3654]

@@CalicoSilver I agree Dylan referred to the Bible a lot. I think you are spot on about that line and All Along the Watchtower supposedly refers to Isaiah 21.

[@CalicoSilver]

@@kenkaplan3654 Thanks, Ken. One of the reasons I love Dylan's lyrics so much is his frequent reference to the Bible. What a rich source of inspiration. Cheers. Jeff

[@slumdogjay]

Interesting stuff. Masterpiece in writing. I enjoyed that, Jeff. Cheers. 🙂

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks Jay. This might be my favorite Dylan song......at least until I hear the next Dylan song which might be my favorite.....and then the next..... Masterpieces, indeed. Cheers

[@carlkuss]

Thanks for relating this song to Christ Crucified and the Mater Dolorosa. That made me think!

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks for your comment, Carl. Ye, that "darkness at the break of noon" line instantly took to me mentally to Matthew 27. Not sure if it was Dylan's intention or not, of course, but...."it's alright ma, I'm only bleeding" definitely hit home.

[@Herzeleydt_Diesentrueb]

µ 2 bro

[@eagleeyeeagleeye6734]

Thank you for this

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks to you too for your kind comment. Cheers! Jeff

[@happyhippythevinylguy]

Really good review on this Calico

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, Rod.

[@st.wolfgang4460]

"Darkness at the break of noon, shadows even the silver spoon Eclipses both the sun and moon" Coming to learn what I have throughout my life and then finding these lyrics from Dylan afterward, blew my mind. Oddly enough there is plenty of historical data to support the literal nature of these lyrics.

[@st.wolfgang4460]

Moreover, he chose to start the song with these lyrics. In addition, as you detailed, he structured the song 5, 5, 5, 2, with 5 of those sections. Hmm... I'm sure that's just a coincidence.

[@CalicoSilver]

Indeed. I know exactly what you mean. It’s taken me a much longer time to truly learn (and I am still learning) what Dylan seemed to know so well at a young age.

[@brandiepowell7774]

It is one of my favorites for sure! I notice that this rhyming structure is something that Dylan uses a lot. My Mom (an English teacher) has a technical name for it, but that name escapes me right now. I'll ask (if I think to ask). lol

[@CalicoSilver]

Perhaps she called it "iambic tetrameter".....like "DARKness AT the BREAK of NOON, SHADows EV'n the SILver SPOON".

[@roberthill7444]

Fantastic review, thanks

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks Robert!

[@anton1949]

One of my favorite Dylan songs. the guitar sounds like he's playing 'wake up little Susie'.

[@CalicoSilver]

Haha, good point. I never thought of that connection but it is definitely there!

[@anton1949]

@@CalicoSilver Sorry I posted that, now when you hear it, it will always be on your mind. I hope not.

[@ryanalcova5931]

What a great video! For me as a non-native english speaker (i'm Brazilian) your thoughts from this lyrics made it up pretty clear and for my surprise I felt since the first time I heard it (understanding just some highlighted words - after all he's almost rapping, and by intonation and energy) the same feeling as you: fuck society, forget their rules, be yourself... and yeah, you may bleed... but it's alright... hahaha

[@CalicoSilver]

Thank you, Ryan. I am happy that people have enjoyed my thoughts on this great song. thanks for commenting to let me know your thoughts also. Cheers!! Jeff

[@jiaxuyan9865]

What a great review! Thank u sir!

[@CalicoSilver]

Thank you for your kind comment. Jeff

[@jiaxuyan9865]

@@CalicoSilver a lyrical review of the song “foot of pride” would be great as well haha!

[@malemsaid6699]

Whenever I listen to this song, especially the last three lines: And if my thought dreams could be seen They'd probably put my head in a guillotine And it's alright ma, it's life and life only, the Orwellian world in 1984, comes home to me. In this dystopian novel, " nothing was your own except the few cubic centimetres inside your skull". Both the song and the novel share the idea of total state surveillance and mind control.

[@CalicoSilver]

I agree 100%! This song is more applicable today than ever. Thanks for your great comment.

[@kevinjoseph517]

elon musk wants to reprogram our brains..check that out.

[@salvatorejfallica4617]

very interesting discussion. dylan's rhyme schemes are fascinating

[@CalicoSilver]

Thank you, Salvatore.

[@1337korv]

youre amazing dude!!!!!!

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks. 😁

[@floydianpsyche]

Thank u so much for this video

[@CalicoSilver]

Thank you for your kind comment, Pradeep. Cheers! Jeff

[@maxryder995]

TQ.: On The Left Side of History!.

[@CalicoSilver]

I never heard much of a "Left" ideology in anything Dylan ever wrote.

[@flittedacrossmybrain8584]

I'm a creative writer, a poet--went to school for it and everything, which is important only to the extent that one may believe it possible for anyone else how to teach another how to be a poet--and I appreciate all the work you've done here. I assume you know of the 60 Minutes Interview of Bob Dylan by Ed Begley. You're correct to say that the lyrics take aim at religion, but the most correct view is that the lyrics take aim at only one religion: Christianity. You're correct in tagging the reference to the crucifixion, and you're correct in noting that the singer never sings the song's title. But why is that? What does he sing instead? Mark all the words in the lyric that are common to an experience at a Christian church (e.g., "choir"). Note the hubris in the lyric's voice, a hubris that indicates that the singer knows who are the wise and who are fools, and that he stands outside of them both. Pretty impressive powers of discernment, eh? I wonder where Dylan thinks he gets such powers? Speaking of Christian things, when do we first read in the Bible the word, "wise"? And what "eyes collide head-on," if not eyes that have been opened? "A stuffed graveyard" may also be understood in the sense we understand the word "stuffed" as it appears in the phrase, "stuffed animal"; i.e., a graveyard that isn't real--a death that isn't more than death, especially when there's talk of at least one "false" god. What's the only god to have been mentioned specifically in the lyric? The lyric holds that all are equal in death. Is this what the Bible teaches? Does the Bible teach that life--Dylan has been singing about it the whole time--is life ONLY? That there's nothing more than this world? If this world is the only one there is, then live however you want. Every time Dylan sings a refrain, he's affirming (by comparison) those words in the song's title that he's NOT singing, that he's NOT affirming, again and again. He's affirming that he has not been crucified with Christ; that he refuses to be crucified with Christ (What could be more foolish than to choose crucifixion! But see 1 Corinthians 1:18-31); besides, that bleeding Jesus is doing up there on the cross is ONLY bleeding, and nothing more. So, children, if you really are a cool kid (or want to be), and if you really know what's going on (or want to) then you'll hang out with Bob Dylan. In his role as The Tambourine Man (backed by "The Chief Commander...in this world...and in a world you can't see.") he'll play a song for you, and in the jingle-jangle morning you'll go following him (see Ezekiel 8:13). Listen very closely to what Dylan says to Begley concerning how "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" was written. Listen also to what Dylan says at the end of the interview concerning why he continues to play music; notice how he seems almost to utter a word beginning with a "D" sound, but catches himself and substitutes the word "bargain" instead. Finally, let's remember that Bob Dylan was born Robert Zimmerman. He is of Jewish heritage, yet he seems not to have been much involved with Judaism as a practice. He did, however, publicly claim to have converted to Christianity. Some time later, he renounced that faith (See 1 John 2:18-20). Here's wishing you peace....

[@CalicoSilver]

Wow, thanks for these great comments and points to consider. There is a lot to think about here, and I will enjoy doing so as I think about this song and other Dylan lyrics. Yes I recall that interview with Ed Bradley very well (it was not Ed Begley, haha, but that mistake made me laugh, so thanks! haha). I must say that I have never gleaned any evidence whatsoever, in Dylan's lyrics nor in his commentary (including the comment on the 60 Minutes interview) that he has rescinded his faith or made any kind of deal with an evil being. I see powerful expressions of faith and thankfulness to God all through his lyrics from the earliest to the latest of his output. He is, however, extremely aware of the fragility of faith and the dangers of false prophets and manipulative abuse of not only faith instutions (religions) but also institutions of politics and every other kind of institution (expressed so marvelously throughout his career, and especially on his Infidels album). Anyway, I'm sure we could have long and enjoyable discussions on these matters. Thanks for your comment. Cheers! Jeff

[@michaellippard6107]

@@CalicoSilver Thanks for the correction: "Bradley," not "Begley." I'm sorry to differ with you, yet I do so amicably. It's not so much a question of whether Bob Dylan has rejected Christ, but rather, whether he ever received him in the first place. In an interview with Rolling Stone, the singer denied having been born again, saying "that's just a media term," but you and I know that "born again" is far more than a media term: No man is greater than his master, and the one who coined that very phrase was none other than Jesus Christ; this occurred when Nicodemus came to Jesus by night to ask him questions. Jesus goes on to ask Nicodemus how Nicodemus could be a teacher in Israel, yet be ignorant of those things Jesus has just told him. It really comes down to the question of whether or not it is anywhere on record that Bob Dylan has publicly said, "Jesus Christ has come in the flesh." If you can point me to that, I'd appreciate it. He's spoken and sang all around the name of Jesus Christ (and even prophetic events) but that's no biggie: In James we read that a man may think he's done something when he says he believes in God, but even the devils believe in God, and tremble; yet they shall never submit to the truth until that time and place wherein, ultimately, all creatures will kneel and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Satan and his demons are acutely aware of the reality of Jesus Christ, and they are terrified of him, yet their doom is sealed. Also, one may read in the New Testament of a girl that had a demon, and who followed the disciples around and made a show of proclaiming that what these men said was true, yet she was rebuked for this: The demon was driven out of her, and her handlers then became angry and sought to bring the law to bear against the disciples for this, since it was by this girl's ability to speak things beyond human knowing that was the source of their income. In short, by sensationalizing The Gospel, Satan seeks to adulterate it with the things of this world; and Satan is indeed, "the god of this world." I think it impossible for Bob Dylan to know how greatly he's being used by Satan; besides, a wishy-washy Christian (and especially one who has disavowed the faith) is far more useful to The Enemy than an out-and-out rebel. I'll leave off here. I sincerely do wish you well. Peace.

[@CalicoSilver]

@@michaellippard6107 You make very excellent and thought-provoking points here, Michael. I really appreciate your comments and will give them a lot of thought. Cheers. Jeff

[@michaellippard6107]

@@CalicoSilver You're a gentleman. Civility is rare these days. If you want to hear more from me, just do another Reply in my direction; till then, I'll be off doing my thing. To care enough, without being a nuisance, is my aim. Peace.

[@paulcaron-wm4tk]

I’m going to tell you the story of how Bob set me on my course. I heard him say “I ain’t gonna work on Maggie’s farm no more.” & I said “Bob, you’re right! I’m not workin’ on Maggie’s farm either!” I was 16, it was 1965 or ‘66, I made the vow. I took the road not traveled on his inspiration.

[@CalicoSilver]

Great song to be inspired by!

[@Herzeleydt_Diesentrueb]

16:00 Could somebody, anybody please decrypt "knowledge waits can lead to 100 dollar plates" ??? Please ! Tia - Herzele

[@CalicoSilver]

Your guess, as well as every other person's guess, is as good as mine....which ain't so good....I doubt if even Dylan himself remembers what he meant when he wrote that line.

[@personampauperis7595]

Enjoyed this very much. Phrase you sought was "Loose lips..." Also, "even the President of the United States sometimes must have to stand naked", I think refers to that we will all stand naked before God--can't cover up anything there.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks! I very much appreciate your kind and helpful comment. Cheers. Jeff

[@plasmoidsound1111]

fvkn excellent synopses mate '

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks! I am pleased that so many people have enjoyed this analysis. I figured I was treading on treacherous ground by attempting to delve into the work of such a revered artist. Thanks very much again for your kind and encouraging comment. Cheers! Jeff

[@sauronilghosh8208]

And though the rules of the road have been lodged It's only people's games that you got to dodge And it's alright, Ma, I can make it. Advertising signs that con you Into thinking you're the one That can do what's never been done That can win what's never been won Meantime life outside goes on All around you. You lose yourself, you reappear You suddenly find you got nothing to fear Alone you stand with nobody near When a trembling distant voice, unclear Startles your sleeping ears to hear That somebody thinks They really found you. A question in your nerves is lit Yet you know there is no answer fit to satisfy Ensure you not to quit To keep it in your mind and not forget That it is not he or she or them or it That you belong to. But though the masters make the rules For the wise men and the fools I got nothing, Ma, to live up to. For them that must obey authority That they do not respect in any degree Who despise their jobs, their destiny Speak jealously of them that are free Do what they do just to be Nothing more than something They invest in. While some on principles baptize To strict party platforms ties Social clubs in drag disguise Outsiders they can freely criticize Tell nothing except who to idolize And say "God Bless him". While one who sings with his tongue on fire Gargles in the rat race choir Bent out of shape from society's pliers Cares not to come up any higher But rather get you down in the hole That he's in. But I mean no harm nor put fault On anyone that lives in a vault But it's alright, Ma, if I can't please him. Old lady judges, watch people in pairs Limited in sex, they dare To push fake morals, insult and stare While money doesn't talk, it swears Obscenity, who really cares Propaganda, all is phony. While them that defend what they cannot see With a killer's pride, security It blows the minds most bitterly For them that think death's honesty Won't fall upon them naturally Life sometimes Must get lonely. My eyes collide head-on with stuffed graveyards False goals, I scoff At pettiness which plays so rough Walk upside-down inside handcuffs Kick my legs to crash it off Say okay, I have had enough What else can you show me? And if my thought-dreams could be seen They'd probably put my head in a guillotine But it's alright, Ma, it's life, and life only

[@larry_ellison]

Some of my favorite of his work. Fun fact it was written in one sitting according to dylan

[@rvvanlife]

Ive always thought; There is no way He could have wrote all those songs without some sort of supernatural help. Paul Butterfield once said: " He's just in tune with the Holy Spirit " which I wish/ hope is true. An interesting back and forth in the comments went like this: " Dylan gets insights from above " , and a reply said " Or from below ". Which goes along with this search I have " what or who was behind what Dylan was able to do? I like how you incorporated the Bible in this awesome analysis

[@CalicoSilver]

Yes it is clear to me that Dylan was either very very well-read w/r/to the Bible even at an early age, or he was connected to the same inspiration as those who wrote the Bible, because so much of his music is Biblically inspired.

[@rvvanlife]

@@CalicoSilver Very interesting points !, Yes, His writing may have come from a foundation of Bible knowledge, plus he may have had a calling to make the point that he eventually made, (through his music), to a new generation. Plus to further your point, his message had a prophetic nature about it as well, "Times They are a Changing " for-telling the change in times that everyone saw happen 3 years later.

[@Groesch7777]

Pioneer

[@Trifixion22]

Wonderful analysis of these lyrics Jeff. I'm interested in that Darkness At Noon book. There's a million books about Nazi Germany, but precious few about the Soviet Union, and even less about Communist China. Interesting themes in that book too. I love Dylan's "heavier" lyrics. Masters of War, Hard Rain, With God On Our Side, etc. Nazareth did a great cover of Ballad Of Hollis Brown, setting the lyrics to equally heavy music. I wish more bands would do that; cover Dylan's songs with passion and set the lyrics to heavier music. Although I will say that even though I'm a metalhead, I can't help but prefer Dylan's rootsier versions.

[@CalicoSilver]

I remember reading Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's "Gulag Archipelago" in the 1970s and it was almost unbearably hard to read of the horrors of such an oppressive tyranny. It would be nice if American school kids were exposed to a bit of Solzhenitsyn's writing.....yeah, like that will ever happen. Anyway, yeah, I like Dylan's hard-hitting lyrics also, but in most cases even his heaviest most grim lyrics offer windows of hope and bravery in the face of oppressive manipulation - other than maybe songs like Hollis Brown (which is amazing also). Thanks for your comments, Nick. Jeff

[@peterweisz6973]

JFK was assasinated in November, not December, of 1963. "Break of Noon" is a twist on a common figure of speech, "Break of Dawn," a device Dylan uses frequently in his lyrics. Amazing stuff from a 22 yr. old Jewish kid from Minnesota.

[@CalicoSilver]

Yeah I clarified the JFK date in the description and/ or pinned comment under the video.

[@kevinbradley7606]

Jeff, i have a question for you. I am wondering is the song Friday (Get Down), a song which Bob Dylan invented. Is it one of the tracks that didnt make it through with the final columbia set back in the 60's. That's a great review in it's alright ma. If Friday is not a hoax, it would be great to hear a review on it, if you think it's worth it.

[@CalicoSilver]

Hahaha!!!

[@tayamorris4758]

Just watched BoB Dylan : changing tracks Music Documentary Andy Gill would like your opinion. I just love your reviews ❤

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks Taya. I have put it in my Watch Later folder and will watch it sometime soon. Thanks again. Jeff

[@ScoriacTears]

4:05 Very interesting, Subscribed.

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks.

[@markyoung950]

I just sent a link to this video to two young video makers in Russia

[@davidargon6623]

“Situation hopeless but, not serious”;)

[@IlyaYakubovich]

I used to interpret "the handmade blade / a child's balloon / eclipses both the sun and moon" in a way similar to you, but lately I've been thinking that it's all the same image: a child lifting his balloon sword to block out the sun.

[@CalicoSilver]

Interesting idea. Thanks.

[@ThomasDeLello]

"​Elston Gunn" is one of Robert Zimmernan's alias'... If fact, "Alias" is one of his alias' too...!

[@markgibbard]

it's life and life only suggests to me that there's something bigger yet to come - are we in a sandbox being tested i think we may be

[@CalicoSilver]

It certainly seems that way at times, especially lately.

[@markgibbard]

@@CalicoSilver great to get the feedback thank you :) in fact i've been going through a v.difficult time over the last decade, lost my entire family, it's still ongoing and v.little help available then i came across this dylan masterpiece recently, listening to it ma easily became mark and a direct message to me - it's alright it's life and life only which helps enormously :) thanks bob e8 lattice, amplituhedron, cosmological polytope and the counter intuitive world of quantum physics life is a spiritual experience not material at all matter is an illusion

[@knockedoutloaded279]

Unbelievable lyrice.. Prob his best ever...... I think it was inspired by the Liverpool poets poem... I can't remember... The 86 version could be the best.....

[@CalicoSilver]

I agree - the '86 version is the best version of this song. I posted the live '86 version on my channel because it is just so amazing. I'm sure you know it well, but here it is in case you want to see it again: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4DHfmqQbLiWqbc

[@maxryder995]

High Noon was a famous Western. Did you mention That? Dylan loves Westerns.

[@CalicoSilver]

I love westerns too. I doubt High Noon was being referenced in this song but you might be right. Thanks for your comment, Max. Cheers. Jeff

[@mburgjr]

Love hearing other people’s thoughts on this song

[@scottyoung3501]

To me it may sound weird but it has the spirit of punk you can almost seen this angry and it was still work kind of like he has two versions of idiot wind I kind of prefer the angrier version The one that wasn't on the original album

[@CalicoSilver]

I agree, Scott. I posted on my channel the live performance of Dylan singing this song in 1986 and it is POWERFUL....just marvelous. I'm sure you've seen it as many times as I have but...here is the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4DHfmqQbLiWqbc

[@scottyoung3501]

@@CalicoSilver thanks

[@keithstewart777]

I believe the structure created here has everything to do an overarching cypher called "gematria" known or unbeknown to Dylan himself.

[@CalicoSilver]

Perhaps. I would be surprised if Dylan intended anything like gematria, but who knows? Thanks.

[@markyoung950]

I did it again. I sent a young Russian KZbinr a link to this video

[@CalicoSilver]

Thanks, Mark. I actually kinda like this video too! Hahaha!!

[@NigelMcClatchey]

Great parsing of one of Dylan's most significant lyrics, but alas, I must point out that none of the Apostles were literally guillotined, although they were put to death for their beliefs.

[@CalicoSilver]

True, Nigel. Paul was reportedly beheaded, but I've never considered him an "apostle", regardless of his repeated claim otherwise. So yes, you may be right. Thanks. Jeff

[@paulgalligan1916]

Hi 👋 jeff

[@CalicoSilver]

Howdy Paulie

[@pistachoone1958]

Mathematical music

[@CalicoSilver]

Hmmm, I certainly never thought of it that way.....interesting..... thanks for the comment. Jeff

[@danielparsons2859]

In the first verse isn't he talking about nuclear holocaust?

[@CalicoSilver]

He very well might be, Daniel.....he is definitely talking about something MAJOR happening on a universal scale. He said that his song "Hard Rain" was not about anything nuclear, so I kinda doubt he was dipping into that topic matter here....but that is just the way I see his lyrics....as more universal and existential rather than catastrophic and nuclear. But who knows? Cheers. Jeff

[@kenkaplan3654]

I think this is a great review but with one great misinterpretation. I love your understanding of the first verse and Dylan's allusions to "Darkness at Noon", by Koestler Jesus' death and the shadow that encompasses everything, even the wealthy including Kennedy. Excellent!!! BUT I think you whiff on the next verse. The verse has to be taken in context with the entire song. Dylan never had issues with environmentalists and this entire period is dominated by vitriol against the military industrial complex (Masters of War, Hard Rain ,God on Our side, etc)), the lies and contempt of uber wealthy elites, (Hattie Carol, Pawn in their Game), and rampant materialism that devours everything. (Tombstone Blues, Highway 61 Subterranean Homesick blues,, etc) Written in 1964, "it's all right Ma" predates the founding of the EPA by Nixon and Earth Day by 6 years and I don't think it was anywhere near Dylan's thoughts.. Look at the entire verse about "Human Gods " "Disillusioned words like bullets bark As human gods aim for their mark Make everything from toy guns that spark To flesh-colored Christs that glow in the dark It's easy to see without looking too far That not much Is really sacred. NONE of this points to environmentalism and instead references that which I pointed out above, as does the rest of the song. (advertising signs they con, money doesn't talk it swears, rat race choir, hundred dollar plates, etc) I like George Carlin and find parts of his bit on "Saving the planet" funny in looking at parts of human hubris but Climate Change, massive pollution and environmental devastation are real, environmentalism is not just bourgeois narcissism and Carlin could be terribly off. (slogans do not define the heart of what things are) Carlin had a perverse antipathy toward some things that did not deserve it, a strange 1950's retro macho street posture that was am inverted elitism and a nihilism at the end that was distasteful.. I doubt Carlin, if alive, would have that posture today (attacking environmentalists, although "saving the planet" has some value to mock). You may want to read that meaning into what I believe (and possibly you too) is the greatest lyrical achievement ever in popular music culture (only Leonard Cohen at his best comes close) but I would suggest this is your projection and has nothing to do with Dylan's intention when he wrote it. Thanks.

[@kenkaplan3654]

P .S.I do think Dylan was taking a shot at what could be perceived as hypocrisy of the "protest movement" ("While others say don't hate nothing at all except hatred".), and this is reinforced in Desolation Row ("Everybody is shouting , which side are you on", and the last verse repudiating "Sing Out-"I received your letter yesterday" but to think Dylan was not a progressive in his thinking in this period of his life is rather foolish.

[@CalicoSilver]

Hi Ken. This song has absolutely nothing to do with environmentalism and I don't think I tried to say that it did. If I made a passing comment about Carlin's (to me) funny joke, that was just an off-the-cuff comment about mankind's arrogance, but I certainly didn't mean to imply that this song was at all about environmentalism, and I think that 99% of my comments confirm this to be true. Did you hear my whole video, or did you just recoil at my brief mention of Carlin's joke and decide to comment based on that? I agree with you 100% that this song is about manipulative, oppressive, arrogant, greedy, shortsighted and foolish forces and the dangers of following them. It has nothing to do with environmentalism. I'm amazed that my brief mention of a comedian's joke could be extrapolated to being my entire interpretation of this song, ignoring everything else I said in the video. Anyway, thanks for your comments.

[@CalicoSilver]

Hi again Ken. I do not think Dylan ever subscribed to an "-ism", but to any extent that he ever did, it most certainly would not have been any "-ism" that was inconsistent with an absolute belief in individual freedoms (including freedom of thought). That much is abundantly clear, even back in the '60s. Many folks subscribing to various "-isms" have tried to claim Dylan as their own, and IMHO have failed, to his great credit. Cheers. Jeff

[@kenkaplan3654]

@@CalicoSilver Thanks for the reply. I reacted because you directly tied "Human Gods" to environmentalists who thought they could "play God" by thinking they could "save the planet". You then segued into Carlin's feelings on the subject. It is strictly no minor reflection of. your review, imo, which otherwise is quite excellent and revealing and with which I agree with, and I applaud you for your insights.. Somehow I think in this case, you interjected your feelings into something the artist never intended and I think the allusion, even if they are your feelings, are misplaced.. Dylan went after the powerful and abusive at that time and for the most part the environmental movement has not been that and has been a bastard child, quite dismissed (look at denial of Climate Change) in American political life since its inception . I agree with you Dylan distanced himself from "movements" and attempts to define him , but I would argue one of his main strains of thought were oriented toward progressive ideas. Although Dylan has had many phases in his career, some intensely personal (Blood on the Tracks, Forever young) and some overtly religious, I so not think a progressive sense of justice and contempt for the hypocrisy of the elites ever fully left him. What more could he say after that early body of work from Freewheeling to Blonde on Blonde ?Hurricane" is an example later of such a song but more like "Hattie Carrol" built around one person and real events.. And in this period of "It's All right Ma" he was ferociously so.. It's fascinating , yet horrifying, that the song in many ways is as excruciatingly relevant today as it was when written 57 years ago, It is ironic that those who felt Dylan had betrayed them. politically did not understand he had taken a scorched Earth stance against the profound dysfunction of the "system" to undreamed of heights that were intensely political, just not didactic (or conventional) enough for those who had not caught up to him.. Comparing political leaders with Jack the Ripper in Tombstone Blues (something that ironically has great truth) "A bald wig for Jack the Ripper who sits At the head of the Chamber of Commerce" is beyond intense and the lines "Well, John the Baptist after torturing a thief Looks up at his hero, the Commander-in-Chief...The Commander-in-Chief answers him while chasing a fly Saying, "Death to all those who would whimper and cry" And dropping a barbell he points to the sky Saying, "The sun's not yellow, it's chicken" is about as ferocious an assault on traditional religion as one can find, mirrored in the opening stanza of the title song of the album. Dylan used to claim his songs had no real meaning. He was not truthful, He was just being evasive because he hated to be pinned down. You don't write "it's All Right Ma" and pretend you don't have a phenomenal and very precise POV. I thank you for a really well done critique and for helping others see the song's true greatness.. I just had issues with that one observation.

[@CalicoSilver]

@@kenkaplan3654 Hi Ken. Wow, what a GREAT comment! Many thanks. You should make some videos about your thoughts on Dylan - they are very insightful and enlightening. Not all fans will agree on every interpretation but that is what makes it fun. I think that my long history of reading and (trying to) interpret poetry, the Bible, philosophy, etc., has given me certain tools and practice with which to approach the amazing poetry of Bob Dylan, even though I'm sure I get things wrong frequently, haha! But again, that is part of the fun, and like I said in my video titled "Was Bob Dylan Right?", I truly do believe that the reception and interpretation of art is part of the whole of the art itself. And yes I agree that Dylan's frequent claim that his songs are not as full of meaning as we fans like to think is an understandable (albeit a sometimes frustrating) evasive mechanism on his part. Oh, and about that Carlin joke and the "human gods" remark, that was an unfortunate and unplanned on-the-fly add-in that I should not have included, I agree....I enjoy Carlin's humor so much and had just watched (for the thousandth time) his bit on "saving the planet" and it was on my mind. You'd think that, after 20 years of giving college lectures, I'd know better than to toss in on-the-fly comments (some of which have got me into some hot water, haha!). But I seem to never learn.... Thanks again, Ken. This exchange has been a very rewarding one. Cheers. Jeff

[@shaunmaloney5415]

Looks like nothing but rain surre gonna be wet tonite on main street hope it don't sleet (name the tune jeff)🇬🇧

[@CalicoSilver]

One of my favorite songs, Shaun! And I used to live in beautiful Utah also. Haha

[@shaunmaloney5415]

I love the tune jeff digging the new versions on the 1970 box set more Dylan please 🇬🇧

[@eggman098765]

Ya ruined with your Christ mumbo jumbo.

[@CalicoSilver]

Sorry I didn't consult with you first.