Meaning of 'Tombstone Blues'

by Bob Dylan

Interpretation

In the song lyrics "Tombstone Blues" by Bob Dylan, different stories are told and different images are painted. The text is very poetic and can be interpreted in various ways.

The song begins with the description of "sweet pretty things" that are now in bed while the town fathers try to support the rebirth of Paul Revere's horse. But the town doesn't have to be nervous.

There is also a story about Belle Starr, a famous outlaw woman, who passes on her knowledge to Jezebel, the nun. She knits a wig for Jack the Ripper, who sits on the chamber of commerce.

Bob Dylan also describes life in a working-class family. Mama works at the factory and has no shoes, daddy is looking for food in the alley. The narrator himself is in the kitchen and has the "Tombstone Blues" - a metaphor for sadness and despair.

There is also a hysterical bride who screams at the amusement park that she just got married. She calls the doctor, who lowers the shade and says not to let the boys in. The medicine man comes and says it's not poisoning and she won't die.

The song lyrics also contain political references. John the Baptist asks the commander-in-chief if there's a grave he can throw up in. The commander-in-chief responds that all who whine and cry should die. He also says the sun is not yellow, it's chicken.

There is also a story about the king of the Philistines who wants to save his soldiers by putting jawbones on their tombstones and flattering their graves. He locks up the pied piper and fattens the slaves before sending them into the jungle.

There are many more images and stories in this song lyrics, often containing absurd and surreal elements. It is a text full of irony and criticism of society and politics. The song lyrics leave room for interpretation and provoke reflection.