Writer and scholar Timothy Hampton presents a unique examination of both the poetics and the politics of Bob Dylan's compositions. This program was recorded by CAN TV.
I can't believe there are only 25 comments (as I write the 26th) on this video/post! I've been a life-long Dylan fan and hearing Tim Hampton disentangle the poetics, the poetry, the music, the blues, the politics, the literary references and the mechanics of popular/classical music in this lecture is, to me, astounding. I have a Masters degree in 20th Century Composition and, for someone like me, who has listened to, and analysed, everything from ancient music to stuff written today (by which I mean TODAY), written and performed loads and have grown up swirling around in the whirlpools of Dylan's lyrics, this lecture is both enlightening and affirming: Enlightening because it brings a whole new dimension due to the info that I didn't know already and affirming because Tim has the same understanding that I enjoy (albeit that Tim is WAY more knowledgeable etc etc) - an understanding from a musician's point of view (eg the analysis of "Rolling Stone" - the band harmonies vs the melodic monotony (meant in the best possible sense!). But this feels like it is someone who is able to articulate exactly what I try to get across to my friends about the enigmatic genius of Bob Dylan. I can't get enough of Dylan and this lecture is pure brilliance. I only wonder what Tim makes of Dylan's "Rough and Rowdy Ways" which is, to me, a glittering pinnacle of his life and work, and which seems to recapitulate everything Tim reveals here! Thanks Tim - MORE!!!!
I've been listening to Dylan since I was 5 years old. I've studied his song structures & rhyme schemes & used what I've learned from him in the creation of my own songs in my stage persona as "Tony Z." This single lecture by Timothy Hampton gave me more insights into Dylan's unique song genius methods than anything I've read in the myriad books on him & his art! It is utterly mind-blowing. Hampton's responses to the questions at the end of the lecture are equally revelatory. I'm checking the Internet right now to purchase his book :-)
My earliest response to Bob Dylan's songs was visceral, emotional. I increased the volume and yelled out the lyrics. Then I began to appreciate his protests and views on current issues such as the Vietnam War. I subsequently tried to penetrate his symbolism and references. This lecture moves me to a deeper understanding of his poetics. Thanks for posting.
The magic that emanates from Bob Dylan cannot be explained even with this excellent source research. I enjoyed reading it, it is also a declaration of love from the author. Bob Dylan isn't just a writer, he's a musician and a singer too-he's a performer of his own work, and he's constantly changing it - until today.
It would be logic if Bob Dylan om his album "Selfportrait" has songs about other people as he himself uses so many peoples inspiration and quotes them so often. So he actually gave us a selfportrait. We only just saw it now.
what is can tv? where was this and what was the occasion? can't hear the questions. not unusual in that. otherwise, very insightful. oh, you don't know how much longer bob will be around, "unfortunately, he won't be around much longer," said you.
I can't believe there are only 25 comments (as I write the 26th) on this video/post! I've been a life-long Dylan fan and hearing Tim Hampton disentangle the poetics, the poetry, the music, the blues, the politics, the literary references and the mechanics of popular/classical music in this lecture is, to me, astounding. I have a Masters degree in 20th Century Composition and, for someone like me, who has listened to, and analysed, everything from ancient music to stuff written today (by which I mean TODAY), written and performed loads and have grown up swirling around in the whirlpools of Dylan's lyrics, this lecture is both enlightening and affirming: Enlightening because it brings a whole new dimension due to the info that I didn't know already and affirming because Tim has the same understanding that I enjoy (albeit that Tim is WAY more knowledgeable etc etc) - an understanding from a musician's point of view (eg the analysis of "Rolling Stone" - the band harmonies vs the melodic monotony (meant in the best possible sense!). But this feels like it is someone who is able to articulate exactly what I try to get across to my friends about the enigmatic genius of Bob Dylan. I can't get enough of Dylan and this lecture is pure brilliance. I only wonder what Tim makes of Dylan's "Rough and Rowdy Ways" which is, to me, a glittering pinnacle of his life and work, and which seems to recapitulate everything Tim reveals here! Thanks Tim - MORE!!!!
In any case, Dylan is the greatest living poet and one of the greatest in history.
So enjoyable- Dylan is a hero of mine and a huge influence on my art.
I've been listening to Dylan since I was 5 years old. I've studied his song structures & rhyme schemes & used what I've learned from him in the creation of my own songs in my stage persona as "Tony Z." This single lecture by Timothy Hampton gave me more insights into Dylan's unique song genius methods than anything I've read in the myriad books on him & his art! It is utterly mind-blowing. Hampton's responses to the questions at the end of the lecture are equally revelatory. I'm checking the Internet right now to purchase his book :-)
My earliest response to Bob Dylan's songs was visceral, emotional. I increased the volume and yelled out the lyrics. Then I began to appreciate his protests and views on current issues such as the Vietnam War. I subsequently tried to penetrate his symbolism and references. This lecture moves me to a deeper understanding of his poetics. Thanks for posting.
The magic that emanates from Bob Dylan cannot be explained even with this excellent source research. I enjoyed reading it, it is also a declaration of love from the author. Bob Dylan isn't just a writer, he's a musician and a singer too-he's a performer of his own work, and he's constantly changing it - until today.
Important work. Far more important than yet more hagiography. Thanks for the lecture. Great insights. The songs are the thing!
It is a really well-written, interesting book that has increased my delight in Dylan's songwriting.
Buy his book. It is excellent.
What a wonderful series of thoughts. Collages professors can help you think. Why don’t more of them do that? What a concept.
Some of my favorite versions are outtakes and alternate versions.
Wow! This lecture is such an eye-opener for an old Dylan fan.
Thank you for this Tim! As someone moved by profound lyrics, I appreciate your insight into Dylan's.
It would be logic if Bob Dylan om his album "Selfportrait" has songs about other people as he himself uses so many peoples inspiration and quotes them so often. So he actually gave us a selfportrait. We only just saw it now.
Really interesting lecture. Especially insightful on Blood on the Tracks.
Relistening to this after a year..I missed the last quarter or so.
Wow I really enjoyed
Wow. I don’t think I’ll ever listen to Tangled up in Blue the same way again
what is can tv? where was this and what was the occasion? can't hear the questions. not unusual in that. otherwise, very insightful. oh, you don't know how much longer bob will be around, "unfortunately, he won't be around much longer," said you.
WOW!!!