(Disclaimer: By no means am I a Dylan expert. I have not heard everything he ever recorded nor have I read every lyric he ever penned. What I have heard and read, however, inspires and amazes me.)
Bob Dylan is an undoubtedly gifted artist. From his start in the 60’s up until present day, he has been one of the most influential figures in the last century, possibly ever. What makes Dylan so special, in my opinion, is not his sheer talent, but is indeed the way he uses it for a greater cause. A self-proclaimed “social commentator” as opposed to a political activist, his songs reflect whatever it is he sees as reality and brings awareness to issues the world would have otherwise ignored. One of his most famous songs- “Blowin’ in the Wind” became an anthem for the American Civil Rights movement. The lyrics easily lend themselves to any worthwhile cause:
Yes, how many years can a mountain exist
Before it’s washed to the sea ?
Yes, how many years can some people exist
Before they’re allowed to be free ?
Yes, how many times can a man turn his head
Pretending he just doesn’t see ?
The answer my friend is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind.
Some people think Dylan is overrated. I disagree! I think he is quite underrated. We should be studying this man in school. He is a master of all things poetic and played a large role in the shaping of this nation. Some of you reading this may think that’s a bit too much importance to be placing upon an artist, but what many people don’t realize is how very important art is. In this particular case, Dylan’s words and melodies took a snapshot of history and preserved it for the generations to come. You know what they say, “If we don’t learn from our mistakes, we’re doomed to repeat them.” Well Bobby gave us the tools to look back in time and remember what it was we got wrong and how we progressed as a people. Unfortunately, my generation has yet to produce Bob Dylan’s equal, that is why I so vehemently suggest we hold on to his timeless words for dear life!
The greatest gift his music and words have given us is the ability to apply our own analysis and get whatever profundity we need out of them. His songs are timeless and should never, ever, be forgotten.
And it’s all over now, baby blue.
Elaine
