It's Alright
Bob Dylan Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Well, it ain't no use to sit and wonder why, babe
If'n you don't know by now
An' it ain't no use to sit and wonder why, babe
It'll never do somehow
When your rooster crows at the break of dawn
Look out your window and I'll be gone
You're the reason I'm a-travelin' on
But don't think twice, it's all right

And it ain't no use in a-turnin' on your light, babe
The light I never knowed
And it ain't no use in turnin' on your light, babe
I'm on the dark side of the road
But I wish there was somethin' you would do or say
To try and make me change my mind and stay
We never did too much talkin' anyway
But don't think twice, it's all right

So it ain't no use in callin' out my name, gal
Like you never done before
And it ain't no use in callin' out my name, gal
I can't hear you anymore
I'm a-thinkin' and a-wonderin', walkin' way down the road
I once loved a woman, a child, I am told
I gave her my heart but she wanted my soul
But don't think twice, it's all right

So long, honey babe
Where I'm bound, I can't tell
Goodbye is too good a word, babe
So I just say, "fare thee well"
I ain't a-sayin' you treated me unkind
You could have done better but I don't mind




You just kinda wasted my precious time
But don't think twice, it's all right

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Bob Dylan & The Band's song "It's Alright Ma" are a commentary on life and society, with Dylan's signature poetic and cryptic lyricism. The opening lines "Darkness at the break of noon, shadows even the silver spoon" set the tone for the rest of the song. Dylan suggests that even those who have everything in life, represented here by a silver spoon, are not exempt from the darkness and shadows that exist in the world. Dylan also references death, a common theme in his work, with the line "the handmade blade, the child's balloon eclipses both the sun and moon." The blade is a symbol of death, and the balloon is a symbol of life's fragility and impermanence.


Dylan then turns his attention to society and those who hold power. He calls out those who make "pointed threats" and "bluff with scorn" and warns that those who are not "busy being born" are "busy dying." Dylan also touches on the idea of temptation and how it can lead to personal and societal conflict. The line "you discover that you'd just be one more person crying" suggests that in the face of society's problems, individual actions may seem futile.


The chorus "it's alright, Ma, I'm only sighing" can be interpreted as a reassurance to his mother, or to the listener, that despite the heaviness of the song's themes, Dylan is only expressing his thoughts and emotions. Throughout the rest of the song, Dylan touches on themes of morality, society's expectations, and personal freedom.


Line by Line Meaning

Darkness at the break of noon
A metaphorical representation of the world's troubles and conflicts that exist even in broad daylight.


Shadows even the silver spoon
Even those who are privileged and wealthy are not exempt from the hardships and darkness in the world.


The handmade blade, the child's balloon
Both destructive and innocent elements exist in the world, highlighting the contrasting forces at play.


Eclipses both the sun and moon
The troubles and conflicts in the world overshadow all aspects of life, symbolized by the sun and moon.


To understand you know too soon
Gaining a deep understanding of the world and its problems can be overwhelming and disheartening.


There is no sense in trying
Despite the challenges and complexities, attempting to make sense of it all is futile.


Pointed threats, they bluff with scorn
Individuals who make threats or act aggressively may do so out of fear or insecurity.


Suicide remarks are torn
Hurtful and negative remarks can have severe consequences, resembling emotional self-destruction.


From the fool's gold mouthpiece
Deceptive statements made by someone who appears successful or influential.


The hollow horn plays wasted words
False promises and empty rhetoric that lead to no meaningful change or progress.


Proves to warn that he not busy being born
One should constantly seek personal growth and transformation, otherwise they are slowly declining.


Is busy dying
If one does not actively embrace life and change, they are merely allowing themselves to decay.


Temptation's page flies out the door
The allure of temptations and distractions is always present and can easily lead one astray.


You follow, find yourself at war
Giving in to temptations can result in internal conflict and inner turmoil.


Watch waterfalls of pity roar
Witnessing and being overwhelmed by the suffering and compassion of others.


You feel to moan but unlike before
In the face of suffering, one may feel the urge to express their pain but find that their response has changed.


You discover that you'd just be
Realizing that expressing sorrow or pain won't change the situation or alleviate the suffering of others.


One more person crying
Becoming aware that joining in the collective despair and sorrow of the world won't bring about any real change.


So don't fear if you hear
Encouraging the listener not to be afraid when confronted with unfamiliar or strange ideas or sounds.


A foreign sound to your ear
Referring to unconventional or alternative viewpoints or perspectives that may challenge one's beliefs.


It's alright, Ma, I'm only sighing
Assuring mother figures that even though the artist may express frustration or disappointment, they are still okay.


As some warn victory, some downfall
Different individuals have contrasting opinions on what represents success or failure.


Private reasons great or small
People have their own personal motivations and justifications for their actions and beliefs.


Can be seen in the eyes of those that call
One's true intentions and perspective can be discerned by observing their actions and expressions.


To make all that should be killed to crawl
Some individuals seek to dominate or suppress anything that challenges their power or authority.


While others say don't hate nothing at all
Contrasting with those who believe in suppressing dissent, some advocate for a mindset of non-hatred.


Except hatred
However, the singer suggests that even the desire to eradicate hatred can become a form of hatred itself.


Disillusioned words like bullets bark
Expressions and statements that burst forth with bitter truth, causing a loss of faith and ideals.


As human gods aim for their mark
People who possess power or authority often seek to fulfill their own goals and objectives.


Made everything from toy guns that spark
Toys and objects that were created for entertainment purposes can be manipulated or misused for harmful ends.


To flesh-colored Christs that glow in the dark
Religious figures or symbols that are distorted or exploited for personal or deceptive purposes.


It's easy to see without looking too far
One can recognize the corruption and lack of sincerity present in the world without extensive investigation.


That not much is really sacred
The artist suggests that very few things are truly honorable, untouchable, or sacred in the world.


While preachers preach of evil fates
Religious leaders often proclaim the existence of malicious destinies or outcomes.


Teachers teach that knowledge waits
Educators convey the idea that knowledge and understanding are acquired over time and with patience.


Can lead to hundred-dollar plates
Acquiring knowledge and education can potentially result in gaining access to opportunities and wealth.


Goodness hides behind its gates
The singer implies that goodness or virtue is often inaccessible or concealed from the majority.


But even the president of the United States
Highlighting that even those in the highest positions of power are not exempt from vulnerability or exposure.


Sometimes must have to stand naked
Occasionally, even those in positions of power or authority are forced to face their limitations and vulnerabilities.


An' though the rules of the road have been lodged
Despite the existence of established norms and regulations, they are not always followed or respected.


It's only people's games that you got to dodge
Navigating through life involves avoiding the manipulative actions and ulterior motives of others.


And it's alright, Ma, I can make it
Reassuring mother figures that the singer has the strength and resilience to overcome the challenges and obstacles.


Advertising signs that con you
Commercial displays and advertisements that deceive or manipulate individuals through false promises.


Into thinking you're the one
Persuading individuals into believing that they are unique or special when they are just being exploited.


That can do what's never been done
Encouraging people to believe in their ability to achieve the extraordinary or surpass previous accomplishments.


That can win what's never been won
Instilling the idea that one can emerge victorious in unprecedented situations or challenges.


Meantime life outside goes on
While individuals are enticed by false promises, life continues to progress and move forward.


All around you
Emphasizing that life, with all its experiences and events, is constantly unfolding in one's surroundings.


You lose yourself, you reappear
Through the trials and tribulations of life, one may temporarily lose a sense of self but eventually rediscover their identity.


You suddenly find you got nothing to fear
After coming face to face with challenges and fears, one realizes that they have nothing to be afraid of.


Alone you stand with nobody near
During difficult times, one may find themselves standing alone without any immediate support or companionship.


When a trembling distant voice, unclear
In moments of vulnerability, a faint and uncertain voice may be heard, causing apprehension and confusion.


Startles your sleeping ears to hear
Unexpected revelations or truths can disrupt one's accustomed and complacent mindset.


That somebody thinks they really found you
Discovering that someone believes they have truly understood or uncovered the depths of one's being.


A question in your nerves is lit
A question or doubt arises within one's innermost feelings or thoughts, causing unease or restlessness.


Yet you know there is no answer fit to satisfy
Even though the question is burning within, the realization dawns that no answer will completely appease the uncertainty.


Insure you not to quit
The artist advises not to give up or abandon one's journey, despite the lack of a fulfilling answer.


To keep it in your mind and not fergit
Urging the listener to hold onto the question and not let it fade from memory or awareness.


That it is not he or she or them or it
Emphasizing that the answers to life's existential questions do not rely on external factors or entities.


That you belong to
Reminding the listener that their sense of belonging and purpose cannot be ascribed to any external sources.


Although the masters make the rules
Acknowledging that those in positions of power and authority establish society's norms and regulations.


For the wise men and the fools
Both the intelligent and the foolish are subject to the rules and expectations set by those in power.


I got nothing, Ma, to live up to
Assuring mother figures that the singer has no desire to conform to society's expectations or impress others.


For them that must obey authority
Referring to those who feel compelled or obligated to adhere to external authority and rules.


That they do not respect in any degree
Highlighting that some individuals blindly comply with authority despite lacking respect for it.


Who despise their jobs, their destinies
There are people who strongly dislike their occupations and the predetermined paths set for them.


Speak jealously of them that are free
Expressing envy towards those who possess freedom to live life on their own terms.


Do what they do just to be nothing more than something they invest in
Alluding to individuals who pursue certain paths in life solely to gain financial or material returns, rather than finding personal fulfillment.


While some on principles baptized
Certain individuals base their actions and decisions on moral or ethical principles.


To strict party platform ties
Referring to those who adhere strictly to a particular political or ideological party.


Social clubs in drag disguise
Suggesting that social groups and organizations may hide their true intentions or motivations behind a facade.


Outsiders they can freely criticize
Individuals who do not conform to or belong to these social clubs become easy targets for criticism.


Tell nothing except who to idolize
Such groups only communicate messages that promote specific idols or figures to worship.


And then say God bless him
Even though individuals are told to idolize specific figures, they are simultaneously directed to bestow blessings upon them.


While one who sings with his tongue on fire
Describing someone who passionately expresses their views or opinions.


Gargles in the rat race choir
Joining the chorus of voices in a competitive and cutthroat society where survival is like a rat race.


Bent out of shape from society's pliers
Being manipulated or distorted by the demands and pressures exerted by society.


Cares not to come up any higher
Such an individual does not aspire to achieve greater success or climb the social ladder.


But rather get you down in the hole that he's in
Their intention is to bring others down into their own disillusionment and despair.


But I mean no harm nor put fault
The artist clarifies that their intention is not to cause harm or assign blame to anyone.


On anyone that lives in a vault
Referring to individuals who lead sheltered lives and are isolated from the realities and difficulties faced by others.


But it's alright, Ma, if I can't please him
Reassuring mother figures that it is acceptable if the artist's actions or words fail to satisfy certain individuals.


Old lady judges watch people in pairs
Symbolizing the societal scrutiny and judgment faced by individuals in relationships or partnerships.


Limited in sex, they dare
Within the confines of societal norms and expectations, these judges audaciously pass judgment on sexual matters.


To push fake morals, insult and stare
Implying that these judges enforce artificial moral values while simultaneously insulting and scrutinizing others.


While money doesn't talk, it swears
Money wields power and influence, often leading to unethical behavior or corruption.


Obscenity, who really cares
Questioning the significance or impact of obscenity or offensive language in the grand scheme of life.


Propaganda, all is phony
Highlighting the pervasive presence of propaganda in various forms, asserting that it is all deceptive and insincere.


While them that defend what they cannot see
Referring to those who blindly defend principles or ideologies that they cannot objectively perceive or understand.


With a killer's pride, security
Such individuals exhibit excessive pride and confidence in their beliefs, even if those beliefs are harmful or destructive.


It blows the minds most bitterly
Witnessing, from an outsider's perspective, the detrimental effects and consequences of such blind allegiance.


For them that think death's honesty
People who believe in the inherent truth or fairness of death and its role in life.


Won't fall upon them naturally
However, death does not necessarily occur in a predictable, unbiased, or just manner for everyone.


Life sometimes must get lonely
Acknowledging that life can often become isolating and devoid of companionship or understanding.


My eyes collide head-on with stuffed graveyards
The singer confronts and clashes with the hypocrisy and falseness prevalent in societal representations of death and remembrance.


False gods, I scuff
The artist dismisses and ridicules the idolized figures or symbols that hold no genuine power or significance.


At pettiness which plays so rough
Expressing contempt for the trivial and insignificant matters that have a disproportionately negative impact on life.


Walk upside-down inside handcuffs
Feeling trapped and constrained by societal expectations and limitations, as if walking in an upside-down or distorted state.


Kick my legs to crash it off
Struggling and fighting against the confinement and oppressive forces that restrict freedom of thought and expression.


Say okay, I have had enough
Reaching a breaking point and declaring that one can no longer tolerate the limitations or injustices imposed by society.


What else can you show me
Challenging the world or society to present something new or authentic that can inspire or captivate the artist.


And if my thought-dreams could be seen
If others were able to witness the complex and vivid ideas and dreams of the singer.


They'd probably put my head in a guillotine
The ideas and dreams of someone who questions societal norms and exposes their flaws would likely be met with severe punishment or suppression.


But it's alright, Ma, it's life, and life only
Reassuring mother figures that the dangers and risks associated with expressing one's true thoughts and dreams are an inherent part of life.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Bob Dylan

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

Genre not found
Artist not found
Album not found
Song not found
Comments from YouTube:

@drothberg3

Going through a breakup at 64 years old, and this song, written by a 21-year-old, 60 years ago, is at the top of my list.

@jumbles1957

Same here… but I’m 66. The song pretty much sums it all up for me. I’m traveling down that road, where I’m going I don’t know… but I certainly can’t go back

@didierdousset2666

Messieurs, si la mélodie de ce morceau est effectivement de très bonne facture, le texte en revanche ne brille certainement pas par sa poésie, et est plutôt d'un faible niveau littéraire.
Gentlemen, if the melody of this piece is indeed very good, the text on the other hand certainly does not shine with its poetry, and is rather of a low literary level.

@beanboi3178

It be like That

@sybell100

Please take care of yourself. I send you my love from Kerala, India. There are people in this world who want to be with you right now.

I wish I could send you some warm hugs and gifts @drothberg3

I wish I could make you a hot beverage.

I am a 26 year old man, I just had my break up with a wonderful woman. I feel you my old pal.

@ivanangeli

it should be easy at 64, to break with someone - just know that all important things you already have done, carier, kids, maybe grandkids, house, education - now it is all just fun and support. Don;t think about it, focus on your family

3 More Replies...

@jel011

As a kid, I used to think the "you just kinda wasted my precious time" line was kind of a throwaway line. As and adult, I understand it might be the soul of the whole song.

@5trezip23

Nice point

@wills9709

Very interesting point. I never thought about it that way until yuh ou

@wills9709

you pointed that out. But I sort of felt that way too.

More Comments

More Versions