Meaning of Als Ob Se’n Frau Wöhr by Bob Dylan

In Bob Dylan's lesser-known song titled 'Als Ob Se'n Frau Wöhr,' the iconic folk artist addresses themes of identity, love, and perception. While the lyrics may be in German, the universal nature of music allows the themes to transcend any language barrier. Let's dive deep into this intriguing song, exploring its standout lyrics and their imaginative themes.At its core, 'Als Ob Se'n Frau Wöhr' seems to be exploring the notion of appearances and the games people play. The opening lines set the stage for this theme, questioning whether it bothers anyone when someone acts as if they're unaffected by the rain. Immediately, we are thrust into a world where individuals project a façade, wearing brand-new clothes made of flawless silk, seemingly perfect in every way.The chorus reinforces this theme with powerful lyrics. "She acts as if she were a woman" suggests that the person in question is playing a role or trying to be someone they are not. This act manifests in their approach to love as well, "she loves as if she were a woman." It is as if the individual is pretending to be what society expects them to be, engaging in love and relationships in a way that does not align with their true selves.This leads us to one of the song's most intriguing lines, "she pushes you away as if she were a woman." Here, the theme of pushing people away and maintaining emotional distance emerges. It suggests that this pretense of being a woman, or perhaps a specific idea of femininity, creates barriers in relationships. The person described in the song uses the role they are playing to keep people at arm's length, perpetuating a cycle of emotional unavailability.Moving further into the song, we encounter a seemingly unrelated reference to Marie, the Queen, as a friend. This unexpected lyric allows us to explore themes of envy and unattainable status. By considering Marie as a friend, the singer acknowledges their desire for what they perceive as unattainable. Yet, it also raises questions about the authenticity of this desire. Would the Queen be a true friend, or would the singer be trapped by her expectations and the pretense she presents to the world?The mention of amphetamines and a pearl necklace furthers the theme of masking true identity. It appears that the person in question is entangled in a dangerous mix of addictive substances and material possessions. These symbols can represent the superficiality and dishonesty associated with the constructed persona. The singer realizes that the person they once coveted is no different from the rest, caught up in a world of illusions.On a personal and emotional level, the song takes an introspective turn. The singer finds themselves on the outskirts, trembling with desire, and feeling cursed. They contemplate their place outside of societal norms, alluding to personal struggles and transcendental experiences. It is a cry for acceptance, a plea to be seen beyond the surface, and an acknowledgment of the loneliness that can come from not fitting into societal boxes.As the song progresses, the singer grapples with the idea of acceptance and being introduced to the world for who they truly are. They suggest that the best approach may be not to present oneself at all, to remain hidden until circumstances allow for genuine connection. In this way, they propose a rebellion against the pretense in society, advocating for authenticity and self-discovery.In conclusion, 'Als Ob Se'n Frau Wöhr' stands as a poetic exploration of appearances, love, and self-acceptance. Through its standout lyrics, the song delves into themes of pretense, emotional unavailability, envy, and the search for authenticity. By challenging societal expectations and advocating for deeper connections, Bob Dylan invites listeners to question their own personas and to embrace their true selves, unencumbered by the masks they wear.