Dylan and Springsteen

Abstract

This chapter offers an analysis of the response to the “crisis of America” as seen by Dylan and Springsteen. Both artists are cultural commentators – “masters of the American soul” – of the times when their key political songs were created. Based on the close textual analysis of several key lyrics, it is proposed that the different historical context in which their political anthems were written – turbulent revolutionary 1960s in the case of Dylan, and conservative backlash of the 1980s – produced a different political message for their fans. Dylan’s was a dynamic progressive call to conquer the space of freedom from the outgoing generation. Springsteen’s was a cautious look at the hometown place – familiar world to be appreciated or longed for. What makes these messages compatible is the emotional trust in the promise of the American Dream. A voice of a generation aspiring to claim power and set the pace for the future for Dylan and more individualistic, personal if not nostalgic reflection for Springsteen. Interestingly, one gets the unmistakable impression that both American icons speak about the same people. Dylan’s baby boomer conquistadors-revolutionaries have settled into Springsteen’s hometown to relish families, jobs and weekend fun. Dylan may be Springsteen’s master (as he himself acknowledged), but it is Springsteen who as Dylan’s follower complements him by exposing the pragmatic character of the American Soul.