About the song
Bob Dylan, the enigmatic bard of American music, embarked on yet another sonic adventure with his 2012 album, Tempest. Among the tracks that made up this critically acclaimed collection, “Duquesne Whistle” stands out as a particularly evocative and intriguing piece. Co-written with the legendary lyricist Robert Hunter, the song serves as the album’s opening track, immediately setting the stage for a journey that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
The song’s title, “Duquesne Whistle,” conjures up vivid imagery of a bygone era—a time of steam locomotives and sprawling landscapes. The whistle itself becomes a central motif, serving as both a literal and metaphorical device. Its mournful, haunting sound is woven throughout the song, providing a backdrop for Dylan’s evocative lyrics. While some critics have interpreted the whistle as a symbol of impending doom or a call to adventure, others have suggested that it represents the enduring power of music.
Musically, “Duquesne Whistle” is a departure from Dylan’s earlier folk-rock sound. The track features a driving rhythm, reminiscent of a train chugging along the tracks. The instrumentation is rich and layered, with prominent piano, steel guitar, and electric guitar parts. This combination creates a sound that is both nostalgic and modern, drawing comparisons to the jazz music of the early 20th century. In particular, critics have noted similarities to the work of Jelly Roll Morton and Earl “Fatha” Hines.
Dylan’s vocals on “Duquesne Whistle” are full of character, conveying a sense of weariness and world-weariness. His delivery is both conversational and poetic, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the song’s meaning. The lyrics themselves are filled with evocative imagery and cryptic references, leaving plenty of room for interpretation. Some have suggested that the song is a meditation on aging, loss, and the passage of time. Others have argued that it is a celebration of life and the enduring power of the human spirit.
Ultimately, “Duquesne Whistle” is a song that rewards repeated listening. Its rich musical textures, evocative lyrics, and enigmatic themes make it a standout track in Dylan’s extensive discography. Whether you interpret the song as a nostalgic journey down memory lane or a prophetic vision of the future, there is no doubt that “Duquesne Whistle” is a timeless piece of music.
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Lyrics
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like it’s gonna sweep my world away
I wanna stop at Carmangale and keep on going
That Duquesne train gon’ rock me night and day
You say I’m a gambler, you say I’m a pimp
But I ain’t neither one
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Sounding like it’s on a final run
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like she’s never blown before
Look like blinking, red light blowing
Blowing like she’s at my chamber door
You smiling through the fence at me
Just like you always smiled before
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like she ain’t gonna blow no more
Can’t you hear that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like the sky is gonna blow apart
You’re the only thing alive that keeps me going
You’re like a tie bound to my hear
I can hear a sweet voice gently calling
Must be the mother of our Lord
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like my woman’s on board
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like it’s gonna blow my blues away
You old rascal, I know exactly where you’re going
I’ll leave you there myself at the break of day
I wake up every morning with that woman at my breast
Everybody’s telling me she’s gone to my head
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like it’s gonna kill me dead
Can’t you hear that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing through another no good town
The lights of my native land are glowing
I wonder if they’ll know me next time around
I wondered if that old oak tree’s still standing
That old oak tree, the one we used to climb
Listen to that Duquesne whistle blowing
Blowing like she’s blowing right on time