Everything is Broken

Bob Dylan's 'Everything is Broken' paints a vivid picture of a world in disarray, where everything seems to be falling apart. The song's repetitive use of the word 'broken' emphasizes the pervasive sense of decay and dysfunction. From 'broken lines' and 'broken strings' to 'broken idols' and 'broken heads,' Dylan catalogues a litany of brokenness that extends from the physical to the metaphorical. This imagery suggests a world where nothing is whole or functioning as it should, reflecting a deep sense of disillusionment and frustration.

The song's verses are filled with everyday objects and situations that are broken, such as 'broken bottles,' 'broken plates,' and 'broken switches.' These mundane items symbolize the larger issues at play, hinting at societal and personal breakdowns. The line 'Streets are filled with broken hearts' adds an emotional layer to the song, indicating that the brokenness is not just physical but also emotional and relational. Dylan's use of 'broken words never meant to be spoken' suggests a failure in communication and understanding, further deepening the sense of alienation.

The bridges in the song serve to underscore the inevitability and constancy of this brokenness. Lines like 'Seem like every time you stop and turn around, something else just hit the ground' and 'Every time you leave and go off someplace, things fall to pieces in my face' convey a sense of relentless and inescapable decay. The song's closing lines, which mention 'broken treaties' and 'broken vows,' hint at broken promises and failed commitments, adding a layer of political and social commentary. Through 'Everything is Broken,' Dylan captures a world where disintegration is the norm, leaving listeners to ponder the causes and consequences of such widespread fragmentation.