Meaning of "Wedding Song" by Bob Dylan

"Wedding Song" illustrates a profound and unwavering love between two individuals. It goes beyond the traditional notions of romance and explores the depth of commitment and devotion. In the opening lines, the narrator establishes that their love surpasses all worldly possessions and experiences. They elevate their partner to an unparalleled level of importance, stating that this love means more than anything else in their life. The repeated phrase "I love you more than ever" emphasizes the growth and intensification of their love over time.

The song also alludes to the transformative power of love. The narrator mentions being in poverty and describes their partner as someone who elevated them from that state, teaching them the value of giving and enriching their life. This suggests that love has the ability to inspire kindness and generosity, turning a person's life around and filling it with purpose.

The mention of babies and the line "you saved my life" further emphasizes the significance of the partner's role. The narrator attributes their survival and new beginnings to the love they share. The imagery of "Eye for eye and tooth for tooth" suggests that their love can sometimes be intense and even painful, but they accept it willingly because it is an integral part of their bond.

The concept of time plays a significant role in the song. The narrator acknowledges the losses and regrets in their past, symbolized by "what went down in the flood." However, they find solace and happiness in their partner, seeing them as the only source of true joy and fulfillment. This suggests that love has the power to heal wounds and bring about a sense of contentment and completeness.

The song also delves into the idea of purpose and individual roles. The narrator acknowledges that they have no desire to change the world or engage in battles. Instead, they cherish their partner and their love, recognizing that their purpose is to be by their side. They feel a deep connection with their partner, describing them as the missing piece that completes them.

Overall, "Wedding Song" is a celebration of enduring love and the profound impact it can have on a person's life. It highlights the transformative power of love, the healing of past wounds, and the importance of finding purpose and completeness through a deep connection with another person.