Meaning of "Handy Dandy" by Bob Dylan

"Handy Dandy" by Bob Dylan seems to depict a larger-than-life character who appears to have an air of invincibility and a disregard for conventional worries or troubles. Through the repeated reference to sugar and candy, the song highlights Handy Dandy's sweet-talking nature and his ability to charm those around him. His interactions with women suggest a complex relationship dynamic where he offers a mix of protection and danger, reflected in the juxtaposition of a gun and a basket of flowers. The lyrics may explore themes of power, control, and duality, questioning the true intentions and vulnerabilities of confident individuals like Handy Dandy while also hinting at his loneliness and the fortress-like isolation he has created for himself. Overall, the song presents a multifaceted character study that invites listeners to ponder the masks people wear and the depths beneath the surface.