Jokerman stands as one of the most enigmatic tracks from Bob Dylan’s 1983 album, Infidels. Known for its dense poetic imagery and cryptic metaphors, the song has invited decades of interpretation from fans and scholars alike. It marks a significant moment in Dylan’s career where he blended his recent spiritual explorations with a sharper, more cynical view of global politics and human nature. The track is celebrated for its lush production and the way it balances traditional folk storytelling with a modern, professional sound.
The central figure of the Jokerman remains a subject of intense debate. Some listeners view the character as a deceptive or manipulative leader who uses illusions to maintain power over a blind public. Others see the song as a personal reflection on the tricks that life plays on us all. The lyrics are filled with religious allusions and biblical imagery, suggesting a broader commentary on the struggle between faith and the harsh realities of the material world. This duality is a hallmark of Dylan’s writing, where he often avoids providing simple answers in favor of letting the audience find their own meaning.
Critics often point to the rich symbols of power and spiritual conflict found throughout the verses. For example, the image of "standing on the water" suggests a figure of immense influence, possibly echoing the story of Jesus, yet also hints at a type of shallow manipulation. The "kingdom of the blind" serves as a critique of a society that has lost its spiritual insight and is easily led by those who possess a sharp but cold perspective. These multi-layered themes ensure that Jokerman remains a relevant piece of art that rewards those who take the time to look deeper into its complexities.
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Jokerman Lyrics
Standing on the waters casting your bread
While the eyes of the idol with the iron head are glowing
Distant ships sailing into the mist
You were born with a snake in both of your fists while a hurricane was blowing
Freedom just around the corner for you
But with truth so far off, what good will it do?
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tune
Bird fly high by the light of the moon
Oh, oh, oh, Jokerman
So swiftly the sun sets in the sky
You rise up and say goodbye to no one
Fools rush in where angels fear to tread
Both of their futures, so full of dread, you don't show one
Shedding off one more layer of skin
Keeping one step ahead of the persecutor within
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tune
Bird fly high by the light of the moon
Oh, oh, oh, Jokerman
You're a man of the mountains, you can walk on the clouds
Manipulator of crowds, you're a dream twister
You're going to Sodom and Gomorrah
But what do you care? Ain't nobody there would want to marry your sister
Friend to the martyr, a friend to the woman of shame
You look into the fiery furnace, see the rich man without any name
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tune
Bird fly high by the light of the moon
Oh, oh, oh, Jokerman
Well, the Book of Leviticus and Deuteronomy
The law of the jungle and the sea are your only teachers
In the smoke of the twilight on a milk-white steed
Michelangelo indeed could've carved out your features
Resting in the fields, far from the turbulent space
Half asleep near the stars with a small dog licking your face
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tune
Bird fly high by the light of the moon
Oh, oh, oh, Jokerman
Well, the rifleman's stalking the sick and the lame
Preacherman seeks the same, who'll get there first is uncertain
Nightsticks and water cannons, tear gas, padlocks
Molotov cocktails and rocks behind every curtain
False-hearted judges dying in the webs that they spin
Only a matter of time 'til night comes steppin' in
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tune
Bird fly high by the light of the moon
Oh, oh, oh, Jokerman
It's a shadowy world, skies are slippery gray
A woman just gave birth to a prince today and dressed him in scarlet
He'll put the priest in his pocket, put the blade to the heat
Take the motherless children off the street and place them at the feet of a harlot
Oh, Jokerman, you know what he wants
Oh, Jokerman, you don't show any response
Jokerman dance to the nightingale tune
Bird fly high by the light of the moon
Oh, oh, oh, Jokerman