Revolution in the Air

Clinton Heylin's Revolution in the Air chronicles Bob Dylan's songwriting journey, exploring his evolution from early poetry to iconic songs that shaped a generation.

In Revolution in the Air, leading Dylan expert Clinton Heylin provides a comprehensive history of Bob Dylan's songwriting journey. The book meticulously details every song Dylan wrote from his early poetic attempts to his peak fame in 1973. Heylin highlights some of Dylan's most beloved and revolutionary tracks, including 'A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall,' 'Subterranean Homesick Blues,' and 'Maggie's Farm,' offering readers a deep dive into the artistry behind these iconic pieces.

Bob Dylan has long considered himself a songwriter above all else, famously stating, 'I am my words.' This sentiment resonates throughout Revolution in the Air, as Heylin distills a lifetime of passion and study into an exploration of Dylan's evolution as an artist. From his initial forays into songwriting with 'Song to Bridget' in 1957, inspired by Brigitte Bardot, Dylan's aspiration for poetry shines through his work, even as his role as a performer often overshadows his writing prowess.

The book captures the essence of Dylan's creative process, detailing the profound impact of New York City on his early career. As he navigated the vibrant folk scene, he crafted songs that would resonate with an entire generation, such as 'Blowing in the Wind,' 'The Times They Are a-Changin',' and 'Forever Young.' Revolution in the Air is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding Dylan's literary significance, packed with new insights and captivating revelations.