Meaning of Baby What You Want Me To Do (infidels Outtake) by Bob Dylan

The Song That Captures the Complexities of Relationships: Bob Dylan's 'Baby What You Want Me To Do (infidels Outtake)'Bob Dylan, the renowned troubadour of the 20th century, has always showcased his mastery of storytelling through his lyrics. One of his lesser-known gems, 'Baby What You Want Me To Do (infidels Outtake),' cleverly explores the intricate dynamics of relationships. Buried within the seemingly simple lyrics are profound themes that capture the nuances of human connection and the struggles we face when trying to please our partners. Let's take a closer look at some standout lyrics that offer unexpected and imaginative insights into the overarching theme of the song."You got me running, you got me hidingYou got me run, hide, hide, run any way you want to let it roll"At first glance, it appears as though the protagonist is describing the power dynamics within a relationship. The lyrics suggest that their partner has a firm grip on their actions. However, delving deeper, we can understand that this goes beyond a simple power struggle. It speaks to the delicate dance we all engage in when trying to keep our partners happy. The protagonist is running and hiding because they're uncertain about how to fulfill their partner's desires. This reveals a deeper theme of the fear of not meeting expectations, of disappointing someone we care about deeply."Going up, going downI'm going up, down, down, up, any way you want to let it roll"Here, Dylan presents us with a lyrical rollercoaster ride that mirrors the ups and downs of relationships. The constant movement between up and down, high and low, mirrors the ever-changing nature of a partnership. It encapsulates the unpredictability and volatility that comes with trying to navigate the peaks and valleys of emotional connection. This theme underscores the difficulty of maintaining stability in relationships and the perpetual need to adapt and compromise."Got me beeping, got me hidingGot me beep, hide, hide, beep, any way you want to let it roll"With these lyrics, Dylan introduces an unexpected theme - emotional camouflage. The protagonist is "beeping" and "hiding," suggesting that they are concealing their true feelings to meet their partner's desires. This speaks to the masks we often wear in relationships, the ways in which we hide our vulnerability and put up a front to appear stronger or more desirable. It highlights the tension between authenticity and the desire to be accepted, sparking a deeper exploration of the intricacies of self-expression within romantic connections.Through these selected lyrics, Bob Dylan takes us on a lyrical journey that explores the multifaceted nature of relationships. The song is not simply about power dynamics or the struggle to please a partner, but delves into the fears, volatility, and emotional camouflage that can consume us when we enter into a romantic connection. It reminds us that while relationships can bring immense joy and fulfillment, they also require us to confront our own insecurities and negotiate the ever-changing tides of love.Ultimately, 'Baby What You Want Me To Do (infidels Outtake)' serves as a powerful reminder that even in the most seemingly straightforward songs, Dylan's lyrics hold a wealth of depth and insight. It challenges us to examine our own experiences in relationships and recognize the complexities that lie beneath the surface. So next time you find yourself swaying along to this lesser-known gem, take a moment to appreciate the layers of meaning embedded within its seemingly simple lyrics.