About the song
Bob Dylan’s “My Back Pages” is a timeless song that encapsulates the evolving spirit of the 1960s folk movement. Released in 1964 on his album Another Side of Bob Dylan, it marked a significant departure from his earlier protest songs. While the acoustic guitar and Dylan’s distinctive voice remain familiar, the lyrics reveal a growing disillusionment with the idealism that had defined his early career.
The song’s refrain, “Ah, but I was so much older then/I’m younger than that now,” is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the changing perspectives that come with it. Dylan seems to be acknowledging the naivety of his younger self, recognizing the limitations of his earlier beliefs. This shift in perspective is indicative of a maturing artist who is seeking new artistic directions.
Although “My Back Pages” was written in 1964, it wasn’t performed live until 1988. This delay suggests that the song held personal significance for Dylan, perhaps serving as a reminder of his journey and the lessons he had learned along the way. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and Dylan’s ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
Over the years, “My Back Pages” has been covered by countless artists, from folk legends to punk rock icons. The Byrds’ version, released in 1967, was a particular success, reaching the Top 40 on the U.S. charts. These interpretations demonstrate the song’s versatility and its ability to resonate with musicians from different genres.
“My Back Pages” is more than just a song; it’s a snapshot of a particular moment in time. It captures the spirit of the 1960s while also acknowledging the limitations of idealism. As Dylan himself has said, “The times they are a-changin’.” And with songs like “My Back Pages,” he continues to be a timeless voice of change and reflection.
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Lyrics
Crimson flames tied through my ears
Rollin’ high and mighty traps
Countless with fire on flaming roads
Using ideas as my maps
We’ll meet on edges, soon, said I
Proud ‘neath heated brow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
Half-wracked prejudice leaped forth
Rip down all hate, I screamed
Lies that life is black and white
Spoke from my skull I dreamed
Romantic facts of musketeers
Foundationed deep, somehow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
In a soldier’s stance, I aimed my hand
At the mongrel dogs who teach
Fearing not that I’d become my enemy
In the instant that I preach
Sisters fled by confusion boats
Mutiny from stern to bow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
My guard stood hard when abstract threats
Too noble to neglect
Deceived me into thinking
I had something to protect
Good and bad, I define these terms
Quite clear, no doubt, somehow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now