Emotions may be cheap but feelings are not. That's why Dylan means so much to me, compared to the other musicians in the same category. His songs make me feel things differently, rather than simply "touch" me on an emotional level.
LEONARD COHEN: "A song that is useful, that touches somebody, must be measured by that utility alone. 'Cheap music' is an uncharitable description. If it touches you, it's not cheap. From a certain point of view, all our emotions are cheap, but those are the only ones we've got."
Two other points Dylan made in the interview. The first one reminds me of what he had said about feelings and emotions. The second one calls for self-reflection which is the most important thing I've learned from his songs.
Bob Dylan is a liar. But he does not deceive himself. Many people go in the opposite direction. It is very hard for those to appreciate the lies Dylan has told before they stop the self-deception.
@jeffslate@bobdylan@WSJ Very inspiring interview. Thank you for the good questions you asked. I also love the liner notes you wrote for Bootleg Vol. 14.
"It’s a path, and destiny put some of us on that path, in that position. It’s not for everybody." I love the way Dylan talks about fate and destiny. His mind is wide open and spirit free. But he is very sure of his own position and how he gets there.
"You’re the master of your fate. You manipulate reality and move through time and space with the proper attitude. It’s not an easy path to take, not fun and games, it’s no Disney World. It’s an open space, with concrete pillars and an iron floor, with obligations and sacrifices."