Meaning of "Song for Bob Dylan" by David Bowie

"Song for Bob Dylan" is a tribute to the legendary musician Bob Dylan, recognizing his influence and the power of his lyrics. The opening lines address Dylan by his birth name, Robert Zimmerman, and reveals that Bowie has written a song for him. Bowie acknowledges Dylan's unique voice, describing it as "like sand and glue." This suggests that Dylan's voice has a gritty and sticky quality that has the ability to captivate and hold people's attention.

The lyrics highlight the impact of Dylan's words, referring to them as "truthful vengeance" that can pin people to the floor. It signifies the strength of his lyrics in exposing societal injustices and speaking out against them. Bowie acknowledges that Dylan's music has brought people together and instilled fear in those who oppose his message. The line "Brought a few more people on and put the fear in a whole lot more" emphasizes the power and reach of Dylan's music.

The song also comments on the changing nature of fame and the risk of losing oneself in the process. Bowie sings about a "painted lady," symbolizing a superficial celebrity, who pretends to be a friend but will ultimately cause destruction. However, Bowie suggests that a couple of songs from Dylan's old scrapbook, referring to his earlier music, have the potential to bring the painted lady back to reality and send her home. This implies that Dylan's earlier, more authentic songs have the power to bring people back to reality and expose the superficiality of fame.

The second half of the song takes on a more political tone. Bowie addresses Dylan directly, expressing his desire for Dylan to contribute his perspective on the current state of the world. Bowie asks Dylan to gaze down the old street, symbolizing a return to his roots and reconnecting with the common people. He also mentions that Dylan's poems, representing his songs and messages, have been lost and replaced with writing on walls, indicating a loss of unity and meaning in society.

Bowie pleads for Dylan to use his songwriting to give back unity and family to the world. He acknowledges Dylan's status as a refugee for every nation, indicating that his music has the power to transcend borders and bring people together. Bowie ends the song by urging Dylan not to leave society with their sanity in the hands of others, emphasizing the importance of Dylan's perspective and message.