Song meaning of 900 Miles from My Home by Bob Dylan

"900 Miles from My Home" by Bob Dylan is a poignant folk song that delves into themes of longing, displacement, and the struggle to find a sense of belonging. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a narrator who finds himself far away from his home, both physically and emotionally. The repetition of the line "900 miles from my home" serves as a powerful reminder of the distance and isolation the narrator feels.

The opening lines, "But I'm down here on this track / Not a shirt upon my back," set the tone for the song, highlighting the narrator's vulnerable and precarious situation. The mention of selling an island he owns and feeding the mouths he took suggests a sense of desperation and a willingness to do whatever it takes to survive, even if it means sacrificing his own possessions and well-being.

The narrator's internal conflict is further explored in lines like "If my old lady she says so / I'll railroad no more," where he grapples with the idea of giving up his wandering ways for the comfort of home. The imagery of the river turning to foam and the ocean side symbolize the narrator's disorientation and inability to find stability or peace, even in nature.

The refrain "Oh Mary don't you moan / Don't you weep on the ground" introduces a sense of hope and reassurance, as the narrator addresses a figure who represents comfort and solace. The promise of being there in due time suggests a glimmer of optimism and a belief that eventually, the distance between him and his home will be bridged.

Overall, "900 Miles from My Home" captures the universal experience of feeling lost and disconnected, while also hinting at the possibility of redemption and reunion. Bob Dylan's evocative lyrics and haunting melody make this song a timeless exploration of the human longing for connection and belonging.