The Times’ odd take on Dylan’s place as one of the ‘Greatest Living American Songwriters’

Key Points:

• Bob Dylan is rightly included among The New York Times’ “30 Greatest Living American Songwriters,” but the author critiques the selection of Dylan’s “five essential songs,” particularly the inclusion of “Isis,” which was co-written with Jacques Levy and is considered only good, not great.
• The author questions the choice of “Don’t Fall Apart on Me Tonight” as an example of Dylan’s humor, arguing that better examples exist, such as lyrics from “Visions of Johanna” on the acclaimed 1966 album “Blonde on Blonde,” which is notably absent from the Times’ essentials list.
• The Times’ list overlooks Dylan’s acoustic period, widely regarded as his greatest by many fans, and omits iconic songs like “Chimes of Freedom,” which the author praises for its poetic depth and significance.
• Although the Times includes “Nettie Moore” from Dylan’s late-career comeback album “Modern Times,” the author suggests “Not Dark Yet” from the 1997 album “Time Out of Mind” would have been a more fitting choice to represent Dylan’s revival era.
• Patti Smith’s contribution highlights the emotional impact of Dylan’s “It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleeding),” emphasizing the song’s resonance with those who experience conflicting inner thoughts, underscoring the subjective nature of choosing Dylan’s essential songs.