Meaning of "Ballad in Plain D" by Bob Dylan

The lyrics of "Ballad in Plain D" explore themes of love, betrayal, regret, and redemption. The narrator reflects on a past relationship with a girl he loved deeply, but his actions led to the demise of their love. There is a sense of guilt and remorse for causing pain and suffering to the girl and her sister. The narrator grapples with the consequences of his lies and betrayal, realizing the depth of his mistakes and the losses he incurred. The imagery of shattered relationships and broken dreams conveys a sense of longing for what was lost and the inability to fully repair the damage done. Ultimately, the narrator comes to terms with his actions and the importance of the girl he once loved, hoping that she finds happiness and understanding in her future relationships. The closing lines about freedom and birds in the skyway suggest a contemplation of the nature of freedom and the constraints that come with it.