The “Embarrassing” and “Pathetic” Song That Ended John Lennon's Love of Bob Dylan
Like most in their generation, the Beatles were massive fans of Bob Dylan. They looked up The Bard’s singular lyrics and cultural outlook. But, like many other Dylan listeners, their fandom was shaken by the diversity of his career. Dylan is an artist who has never been afraid to shake things up. While admirable, that kind of artistry is not without its drawbacks. There was one Dylan evolution that didn’t strike the right chord with John Lennon. He labeled one iconic Dylan song “pathetic,” so much so that it prompted him to denounce his once-idol.
John Lennon was famously against organized religion. He wasn’t a completely atheist artist, but his spirituality or faith was a singular experience. He was turned off by the conventions and, perhaps, politics of religious models.
This point of view stood in stark contrast to that of Dylan’s in the late 70s, when he released “Gotta Serve Somebody”. This iconic song (or infamous song, depending on who you ask) was an unusual stance for Dylan to take. His “born again” Christian era was a shock to many listeners who thought of Dylan as a secular voice.
Lennon, due to their opposing views, turned away from Dylan once he embarked on this new spiritual journey. “Really Pathetic”
Source: Alex Hopper/americansongwriter.com
