The song, “Times are a-changin'” criticises society’s wrongdoings and faults that have severe consequences. The song serves as an anthem or a warning, conveying complex ideas regarding social structure and the change that is needed to transform society. The tone of the song is somewhat dark but also positive at the same time. It manages to convey the seriousness and danger of the problem, but also presents it in such a way that it leaves the listeners to feel motivated to make change. Dylan explores the global issue of changing society’s mindset by introducing them to significant issues and simplifying the matter to create a more meaningful impact. Dylan uses figurative language to simplify his message, but in a convincing manner. He uses figurative language to emphasise his message as it could imply how his perception of an ideal world is simply a fantasy and unrealistic. For example, Dylan sings,
“And admit that the waters
Around you have grown”
“Then you better start swimmin’
Or you’ll sink like a stone”
These lyrics aren’t literal as it’s not physically possible for water to “grow,” however, the use of figurative language symbolises that the water is rising and it could perhaps represent the arising problems and potential fatalities if no action is taken. The following two lines encourage the listeners to take part in the changing times and begin “swimmin” to survive, or else the weight of our toxicity will weigh us down. The figurative language leaves it to the listener’s interpretation and allows for meaningful connections to be made.
Dylan continues to explore the global message of social transformation and the need to eliminate all the wrong-doings of society for the betterment of its members through the general tone and symbols present in his song. He uses symbols such as the the spinning of the “wheel,” to represent how time is still ongoing and it’s still possible to make significant change. Other symbols such as the doorway symbolises the exit from this unequal society into a change. It suggests that nobody should block the way out of this society and the passage for positive transformation. The tone of the song is generally motivating and encouraging as it creates a sense of hope that there is still time left to repair the damage that has occured to society. It also serves as a warning to inform the audience of the fatal consequences if they falter to rectify the situation immediately. It blames the listeners for letting the situation get to the current point where it’s become a question of life or death.
In summary, there is the theme of conflict that is being presented to the audience in a more subtle manner as we get the idea that conflict will arise if people do not move along with the change that is occurring. There is a theme of justice and repercussions as Dylan reminds the audience of the severe consequences should there be no change. There is a sense of inevitability since Dylan seems to be giving the audience a warning, saying that if we continue to live this way, it will be inevitable for the things that he mentions to happen. He makes it seem as though there is still time to take action, however it is extremely important for that action to be taken now in order for the proper change to occur, and in order for our actions to actually make a difference before time catches up to us.
