It’s been so rainy and chilly here in Stumptown these past few weeks, with only stolen bits of sunshine and warmth.  It feels like winter, and I look a bit like Bob on this album cover, my absolute favorite of his.  I am bundled up and, perhaps, a bit weary, stern, and blurry.  But warmth will soon be at hand in these parts, I’m sure.

As I am no scholar of music, and I know of the importance of this album (considered one of the greatest of all time), I won’t pretend to know something special about it, save what it arouses in me.  I love the layered lyrics and the sense of wonder and pleasure I feel at the listening.  Is he cruel or kind, dreamy or rooted – probably all of these, for aren’t we all?  The man is thoughtful and gifted (I certainly envy his mad writing skills sometimes) and wickedly clever.  If you don’t already know them, read the lyrics to “Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again”  or “Visions of Johanna” and you’ll see what I mean.  Good stuff!

As well, I’ll be taking a break from the blog next week.  See you on the 19th or thereabouts.  Take care my friends!