The lyrics of "Jack-A-Roe" tell the story of a wealthy merchant's daughter who is in love with a sailor named Jack. Her father tries to force her to marry someone else, but she disguises herself as a man named Jack-A-Roe to join Jack on his sailing journey. During a war, Jack is injured, and she rescues him, nurses him back to health, and they eventually get married.

Meaning of "Jack-A-Roe" by Bob Dylan

The lyrics of "Jack-A-Roe" explore themes of love, sacrifice, gender roles, and societal expectations. The daughter's defiance of her father's wishes and her willingness to risk everything to be with the man she loves showcase the power of love to overcome obstacles. The decision to disguise herself as a man to be with her beloved demonstrates the lengths she is willing to go for their love, challenging traditional gender norms and expectations. The war setting adds a layer of danger and drama to their story, culminating in the ultimate act of love as she saves and cares for Jack. The lyrics depict a love story that transcends societal constraints and flourishes through challenges and adversity.