Ballad Of Hollis Brown

Bob Dylan's "Ballad Of Hollis Brown" is a haunting narrative that delves into the depths of poverty, despair, and the human condition. The song tells the tragic story of Hollis Brown, a man living on the outskirts of town with his wife and five children in a dilapidated cabin. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the family's dire circumstances, with no work, no money, and children so hungry they can't even smile. This stark portrayal of poverty is a powerful commentary on the struggles faced by many during times of economic hardship.

As the song progresses, the desperation of Hollis Brown becomes more palpable. The imagery of rats infesting their flour and bad blood affecting their mare symbolizes the pervasive and inescapable nature of their suffering. The repeated pleas to the Lord for help, met with silence, underscore the sense of abandonment and hopelessness. The cries of his children and the screams of his wife add to the mounting pressure on Hollis, driving him to the brink of madness.

The climax of the song is both shocking and inevitable. With no other options left, Hollis Brown spends his last dollar on shotgun shells. The cold, desolate wilderness and the call of a coyote set the stage for the tragic conclusion. The seven shots that ring out signify the end of Hollis Brown and his family, a grim reminder of the devastating impact of poverty and despair. The final lines, mentioning seven new people born, hint at the cyclical nature of life and suffering, suggesting that while one story ends, another begins, perpetuating the cycle of hardship.