As part of my recent goal to memorise more lyrics and poems, I was listening to Bob Dylan this morning when a stanza from Tangled Up In Blue struck me:

She was married when they first met
Soon to be divorced
He helped her out of a jam,
I guess
But he used a little too much force

They drove that car as far as they could
Abandoned it out West
Split up on a dark sad night
Both agreeing it was best

She turned around to look at him
As he was walkin’ away
She said this can’t be the end
“We’ll meet again someday on the avenue”

Tangled Up In Blue

Look at the action and vivid imagery in these verbs. Each one carries its own unique spin which drives the narrative of the song along. Had they been replaced with something more bland or simple, the essence of the piece would have been lost.

One lesson in writing I have been taught is to use simple language wherever possible. This improves comprehension, is respectful to the reader, and allows the idea to shine through more. But when I read Bob Dylan’s lyrics, I realise that simple language pays a price in elegance and beauty. By choosing “abandoned” instead of “left” or “divorced” instead of “alone”, the reader is able to access a more nuanced view on the piece.

The trick seems to be to find the most precise, vivid, and beautiful word to describe something without confusing the reader.