The lyrics describe three angels playing horns on a street corner while various characters and objects pass by, such as a wildcat, a lady in an orange dress, and people on their way to work. The angels continue to play as the world moves around them, questioning if anyone is actually listening to their music.

Meaning of "Three Angels" by Bob Dylan

"Three Angels" by Bob Dylan seems to explore the idea of divine presence in the midst of the chaos and indifference of everyday life. The angels, dressed in green robes with wings, symbolize a higher spiritual realm existing among the mundane reality of the street corner. As different characters and elements pass by, the angels continue to play their horns, seemingly unnoticed and unappreciated. This may suggest a disconnect between the earthly world and the spiritual one, emphasizing the idea that people may be too preoccupied with their own lives to stop and appreciate the beauty and grace around them. The repeated question of whether anyone hears the music they play highlights the theme of neglecting the spiritual and symbolic in favor of the concrete and practical. Overall, the lyrics prompt listeners to consider the existence of beauty and divine presence in ordinary life and to reflect on the importance of paying attention to the ethereal aspects of existence amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday routines.