Meaning of "Obviously 5 Believers" by Bob Dylan

"Obviously 5 Believers" is a cryptic song that captures the emotional complexity of a relationship and the sense of internal struggle experienced by the narrator. The repetition of "early in the morning" creates a sense of urgency and longing, suggesting that the narrator is reaching out desperately for someone to come home. This craving for connection becomes apparent when the narrator confesses that they could make it without the person, but they feel overwhelmingly alone. This statement implies that their emotions override any logical reasons for independence. It reflects the universal human desire for companionship and the difficulty of confronting one's own loneliness.

The narrator's plea for the other person to not let them down is significant. It showcases the vulnerability and dependence on the relationship. By promising not to let the other person down, the narrator is emphasizing their commitment to the relationship and seeking reassurance in return. It demonstrates the weight of expectations and the fear of disappointment in a partnership.

The mention of a black dog barking outside the narrator's yard adds an element of unease and danger. Dogs are often associated with loyalty and protection, but the presence of a black dog implies that there may be something threatening or sinister at play. This could symbolize the narrator's internal turmoil or the external challenges that are impeding the relationship.

The reference to someone's mother introduces another layer of complexity. It suggests a troubled familial dynamic and potentially affects the relationship between the narrator and the person they are desperately calling for. The narrator acknowledges that the mother is working and struggling, but they admit their inability to fully understand her wants or needs. This reflects the limitations of communication and understanding in relationships, particularly when there are external factors involved.

The lyrics conclude with a mention of fifteen jugglers and five believers dressed like men. This enigmatic imagery adds to the surreal and puzzling nature of the song. The mention of jugglers could symbolize the various roles or challenges in life that the narrator and the person they are addressing face. The five believers might represent a small group of people who genuinely support and believe in the narrator's intentions, but the fact that they are dressed like men could suggest that they may not be genuine or trustworthy. The reassurance to the listener's mother that they are just friends hints at a need to downplay or mask the true nature of the relationship.

Overall, "Obviously 5 Believers" is a song that delves into the longing, desperation, and confusion that underlie human relationships and the complexities of emotional connection. It showcases the universal struggle of seeking companionship and understanding while battling the fear of disappointment and the limitations of communication.