About the song

Bob Dylan, a name synonymous with poetic lyricism and musical innovation, has gifted us with countless timeless classics. Among these, “Jokerman” stands as an enigmatic and thought-provoking piece that has captivated listeners for decades. Released in 1983 as part of his album Infidels, “Jokerman” is a song that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers of meaning with each exploration.

The title itself, “Jokerman,” is intriguing. It suggests a mysterious, almost mythical figure, a trickster or jester with an underlying darkness. Dylan’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of this enigmatic character, who is both outsider and observer. The song opens with the lines, “Jokerman dance to the nightingale tune/Bird fly high by the light of the moon.” This imagery creates a sense of otherworldly enchantment, as if the Jokerman is a creature of the night, existing on the fringes of society.

One of the most striking aspects of “Jokerman” is its ambiguity. Dylan’s lyrics are often open to interpretation, allowing listeners to bring their own experiences and perspectives to the song. Some have suggested that the Jokerman is a symbol of the artist himself, a figure who is both celebrated and misunderstood. Others have interpreted the song as a commentary on political and social issues of the time. This ambiguity is a hallmark of Dylan’s songwriting, and it is what makes his music so enduring.

Musically, “Jokerman” is a departure from some of Dylan’s earlier work. The song features a driving rhythm and a prominent electric guitar riff, giving it a more rock-oriented sound. However, Dylan’s distinctive vocals and poetic lyrics maintain a strong connection to his folk roots. This blend of styles is characteristic of Dylan’s music, and it is one of the reasons why he has been able to appeal to such a wide range of listeners.

The song’s lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and allusions. Dylan’s use of language is both poetic and evocative, creating a rich tapestry of sound and meaning. Phrases such as “Standing on the waters casting your bread” and “Distant ships sailing into the mist” evoke a sense of mystery and wonder. These images, combined with the song’s haunting melody, create a powerful and lasting impression.

In conclusion, “Jokerman” is a complex and rewarding song that continues to fascinate listeners decades after its release. Bob Dylan’s ability to create enigmatic characters and to weave together poetic imagery and musical innovation is on full display in this track. Whether you interpret the song as a commentary on the human condition, a reflection on the artist’s own life, or simply as a beautiful piece of music, “Jokerman” is a testament to Dylan’s enduring legacy.

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Lyrics

Standing on the water casting your breadWhile the eyes of the idol with the iron head are glowingDistant ships sailing into the mistYou were born with a snake in both of your fistsWhile a hurricane was blowingFreedom just around the corner for youBut with truth so far off, what good will it do?
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tuneBird fly high by the light of the moonOh, oh, oh, Jokerman
So swiftly the sun sets in the skyYou rise up and say goodbye to no oneFools rush in where angels fear to treadBoth of their futures, so full of dread, you don’t show oneShedding off one more layer of skinKeeping one step ahead of the persecutor within
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tuneBird fly high by the light of the moonOh, oh, oh, Jokerman
You’re a man of the mountains, you can walk on the cloudsManipulator of crowds, you’re a dream twisterYou’re going to Sodom and GomorrahBut what do you care? Ain’t nobody there would want to marry your sisterFriend to the martyr, a friend to the woman of shameYou look into the fiery furnace, see the rich man without any name
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tuneBird fly high by the light of the moonOh, oh, oh, Jokerman
Well, the Book of Leviticus and DeuteronomyThe law of the jungle and the sea are your only teachersIn the smoke of the twilight on a milk-white steedMichelangelo indeed could’ve carved out your featuresResting in the fields, far from the turbulent spaceHalf asleep near the stars with a small dog licking your face
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tuneBird fly high by the light of the moonOh, oh, oh, Jokerman
Well, the rifleman’s stalking the sick and the lamePreacher man seeks the same, who’ll get there first is uncertainNightsticks and water cannons, tear gas, padlocksMolotov’s cocktails and rocks behind every curtainFalse-hearted judges dying in the webs that they spinOnly a matter of time ’til night comes steppin’ in
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tuneBird fly high by the light of the moonOh, oh, oh, Jokerman
It’s a shadowy world, skies are slippery grayA woman just gave birth to a prince today and dressed him in scarletHe’ll put the priest in his pocket, put the blade to the heatTake the motherless children off the streetAnd place them at the feet of a harlotOh, Jokerman, you know what he wantsOh, Jokerman, you don’t show any response
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tuneBird fly high by the light of the moonOh, oh, oh, Jokerman