The lyrics of "Drifter's Escape" tell the story of a drifter being carried away from a courtroom, pleading for help and unsure of what he did wrong. The judge shows sympathy and confusion towards the drifter's situation, while chaos erupts outside. Ultimately, the drifter manages to escape during the commotion of a lightning strike.

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Meaning of "Drifter's Escape" by Bob Dylan


"Drifter's Escape" by Bob Dylan can be interpreted as a commentary on justice, judgment, and the concept of escape. The drifter represents an individual caught in the system, unsure of their own guilt or innocence. The actions of the judge, jury, and spectators show the chaotic and sometimes arbitrary nature of justice. The lightning strike that allows the drifter to escape might symbolize a sudden twist of fate or the intervention of a higher power. The song can be seen as a reflection on the limitations of human understanding, the potential for redemption even in the face of judgment, and the idea of breaking free from confines, whether physical or metaphorical.