Bob Dylan's song "My Own Version Of You" is a compelling exploration of identity, creation, and the human condition. Through vivid imagery and thought-provoking lyrics, Dylan takes listeners on a journey into the depths of his psyche as he grapples with existential questions and the desire to exert control over his surroundings.
The song opens with a haunting depiction of the protagonist's quest to assemble the perfect companion, scouring morgues and monasteries for the necessary body parts. The repetition of "I'll bring someone to life, it's what I wanna do / I wanna create my own version of you" underscores the protagonist's determination and longing for companionship.
As the song unfolds, Dylan delves into themes of longing and regret, expressing a sense of dissatisfaction with his current state. Lines like "Well, it must be the winter of my discontent / I wish you'd've taken me with you wherever you went" convey a deep yearning for connection and understanding.
The protagonist's endeavor to create their own version of a companion takes on a surreal and fantastical tone as Dylan weaves together references to iconic figures like Scarface Pacino and The Godfather Brando. The imagery of mixing these elements in a tank to create a "robot commando" highlights the protagonist's desire to control and manipulate their creation.
Throughout the song, Dylan wrestles with existential questions and the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. References to studying Sanskrit and Arabic and seeking to benefit all mankind underscore the protagonist's intellectual curiosity and altruistic aspirations.
As the song reaches its climax, Dylan's imagery becomes increasingly vivid and evocative. Descriptions of standing by the cypress tree and witnessing the horrors of history, juxtaposed with the desire to bring someone to life, create a sense of urgency and introspection.
In the final verses, Dylan confronts mortality and the eternal quest for meaning and purpose. The imagery of lightning and electricity symbolizes the protagonist's attempt to infuse life into their creation, to "turn back the years" and defy the passage of time.
"My Own Version Of You" is a masterful meditation on the human condition, blending elements of longing, regret, and existential inquiry into a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion. Dylan's poetic lyrics and haunting melody linger in the mind long after the song has ended, inviting listeners to ponder the complexities of identity and creation.
