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Starry-eyed an' laughing as I recall when we were caught…

“Starry-eyed an' laughing as I recall when we were caught Trapped by no track of hours for they hanged suspended As we listened one last time an' we watched with one last look Spellbound an' swallowed 'til the tolling ended Tolling for the aching whose wounds cannot be nursed For the countless…” quote by Bob Dylan
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““Starry-eyed an' laughing as I recall when we were caught Trapped by no track of hours for they hanged suspended As we listened one last time an' we watched with one last look Spellbound an' swallowed 'til the tolling ended Tolling for the aching whose wounds cannot be nursed For the countless confused, accused, misused, strung-out ones an' worse An' for every hung-up person in the whole wide universe An' we gazed upon the chimes of freedom flashing””

Bob Dylan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A poetic, chaotic stream of images reflecting frustration, oppression, and yearning for freedom amid societal turmoil.

In simple terms: A vivid, chaotic lament for the oppressed seeking freedom.

Key Takeaway

Listen for the voices of the marginalized.

Themes

oppression freedom confusion hope social critique

Mood

reflective somber

Type

poetic political

When to use this quote

  • protests
  • personal reflection
  • artistic expression
  • social movements

Key Concepts

poetry musical lyric social commentary

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who are the “hung‑up persons” in today’s world?
  • How does chaos convey urgency?
A Different Perspective

Overly abstract language can alienate listeners.

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