Chronicles – Volume One

Chronicles – Volume One by Bob Dylan (2004) I recently heard that Bob Dylan has a new book, and I just finished this one—that didn’t take him long. Except that this one came out in 2004—and I’d been meaning to read it for years. It was my reading room book for the past several—well, as long as it took me. Reading room—that means, on the toilet, in case you don’t know. I wonder if Bob would appreciate that? From the impression I get of him from reading this book, I’d guess he would. He comes across like a human being, an interesting, quirky guy with a good sense of humor. You can even forget for a while all the legendary rockstar nonsense and read the book like you’re getting some really good stories from an eccentric friend who’s had some adventures. I like his writing style—it feels like it was important for him to enjoy writing it. The book is divided up into five “books”—each with a title, and a particular moment in time and place where Dylan experienced some defining series of events shared with particular acquaintances that were crucial to him. That is, it doesn’t plod through time and events like a traditional biographical depiction—but jumps around and feels fresh. He talks a lot about other people who he has admired and were influential to him—some who he knew and some he didn’t—but it’s worth taking notes, sometimes, and looking some of the names up later—there’s a lot to discover. I’m wondering if his new book is along these lines—if so, I’ll be interested. And if there’s ever a Chronicles Volume Two, I might check that out, as well.