The lyrics of "Ballad of Hollis Brown" tell the story of a man named Hollis Brown who is living in poverty on the outskirts of town with his wife and five children. They are desperate for work and money, and their dire circumstances have led to hunger, despair, and desperation. Despite praying for help, they feel abandoned and alone. As their situation worsens, Hollis's thoughts turn to violence, and the song ends with the implication that he has killed his family and himself.

Meaning of "Ballad Of Hollis Brown" by Bob Dylan

"Ballad of Hollis Brown" is a haunting and bleak portrayal of the devastating effects of poverty and desperation on a family. The song highlights the cycle of despair faced by those living on the margins of society, trapped in a perpetual struggle for survival. Bob Dylan uses vivid imagery to depict the gradual disintegration of Hollis Brown's life, capturing the despair, hopelessness, and descent into darkness. The repeated references to hunger, the broken-down cabin, and Hollis's empty pockets emphasize the constant struggle to provide for his family's basic needs.

The song raises questions about society's responsibility towards its most vulnerable members. The line "If there's anyone that knows, is there anyone that cares?" suggests a sense of abandonment and isolation. Hollis Brown's desperate plea to the Lord for a friend goes unanswered, highlighting the lack of support and compassion for those in need. The lyrics also shed light on the psychological toll of extreme poverty, as Hollis experiences overwhelming guilt, frustration, and madness. This is evident in the lines "Your baby's eyes look crazy, they're a-tuggin' at your sleeve" and "Your brain is a-bleedin' and your legs can't seem to stand," painting a picture of a man on the brink of collapse.

Furthermore, the song explores the theme of violence as a response to desperation. The presence of the shotgun in the lyrics symbolizes Hollis's growing desperation and the potential for a violent act. The final lines of the song imply a tragic ending, with the mention of "seven people dead" on a South Dakota farm juxtaposed against "seven new people born." This contrast suggests a cycle of poverty and despair that persists across generations, perpetuating a never-ending cycle of suffering.