The Spirituality of Bob Dylan, Nobel Laureate
Bob Dylan in Toronto
Today Bob Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature for “having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition.” In honor of this recognition I’ve collected a few resources that explore the spirituality of his works. You’ll find articles from America Magazine, videos from Bishop Robert Barron of Word on Fire, and concert footage of Dylan himself singing one of his spiritual songs that always moves me.
America Magazine
Shortly after the announcement today, Fr. James Martin posted the following links from America Magazine on his Facebook page to remind us of the spiritual side of his body of work:
- Singin with the Word – Bob Dylan’s use of scripture in a book review of Tangled Up in the Bible: Bob Dylan and Scripture
- Diamonds and Rust – a tribute by James T. Keane
- Bob Dylan’s Churches – A travelogue of different places of worship
Word on Fire
Bishop Robert Barron has recorded several videos featuring the spiritual side of Bob Dylan. Here are two of the best:
Bishop Robert Barron on Bob Dylan
Bishop Barron on Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower”
And finally, the man himself singing one of my favorites, “What Can I Do for You?”
You have given everything to me
What can I do for You?
You have given me eyes to see
What can I do for You?
Pulled me out of bondage and You made me renewed inside
Filled up a hunger that had always been denied
Opened up a door no man can shut and You opened it up so wide
And You’ve chosen me to be among the few
What can I do for You?
You have laid down Your life for me
What can I do for You?
You have explained every mystery
What can I do for You?
Soon as a man is born, you know the sparks begin to fly
He gets wise in his own eyes and he’s made to believe a lie
Who would deliver him from the death he’s bound to die?
Well, You’ve done it all and there’s no more anyone can pretend to do
What can I do for You?
You have given all there is to give
What can I do for You?
You have given me life to live
How can I live for You?
I know all about poison, I know all about fiery darts
I don’t care how rough the road is, show me where it starts
Whatever pleases You, tell it to my heart
Well, I don’t deserve it but I sure did make it through
What can I do for You?
