The article details a personal journey of the author's relationship with Bob Dylan's music, describing initial indifference and a critical stance shaped by the legacy surrounding him. Despite being a long-time music journalist, the author grappled with Dylan's profound influence until a turning point came upon viewing the documentary A Complete Unknown, which sparked a newfound obsession. The piece emphasizes the complex nature of engaging with an iconic artist, illustrating a transformation from skepticism to admiration and passion.
At my most cynical, I resented the weight of Dylan's legacy. Once, when doing some freelance shifts at Uncut magazine, I wrote up news on the latest edition of The Basement Tapes and asked whether anyone would truly be excited about these studio dregs.
I went out of professional duty and there not being much else to do in January. Some friends refused to see it, assuming it would be some kind of sacrilegious affront.
I left the cinema fizzing with teenage-worthy obsession. I've scarcely listened to a musician with such intent since then.
On an interminable van journey from Cornwall to Edinburgh, friends played a CD of his greatest hits, but it left no lasting impression.
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