Meaning of It Had To Be You by Bob Dylan

The song "It Had To Be You" by Bob Dylan is a beautiful ballad that explores the complexities of fate, love, and relationships. The overall theme of the song can be interpreted as the inevitability of finding true love with someone, as if it was predetermined by some greater force. Dylan's lyrics convey a sense of longing, destiny, and acceptance, making it a timeless and relatable song for anyone who has experienced the serendipity of love.One standout lyric in the song is "It must have been that something lovers call fate, kept me saying, 'I have to wait'." This line raises the theme of patience and the belief that true love will eventually find its way into our lives. It suggests that the narrator had been searching for love, encountering numerous potentials along the way, but something within them knew it was not the right time or person. The theme of waiting emphasizes the idea that love cannot be forced or rushed, and that at the right moment, the perfect person will enter our lives.Another important lyric is "I wandered around and finally found the somebody who could make me be true, could make me be blue, and even be glad, just to be sad thinking of you." Here, the theme of authenticity and vulnerability is highlighted. The narrator acknowledges the power that this special someone holds over them, as they have the ability to evoke a range of emotions – from happiness to sadness. This lyric underscores the depth of the connection between two people, suggesting that it takes a specific someone to access those real and raw emotions within ourselves.The line "For nobody else gave me a thrill, with all your faults I love you still" emphasizes the theme of acceptance and unconditional love. It suggests that the narrator recognizes that perfection is not a prerequisite for love. In fact, the imperfections and faults of the loved one only serve to deepen the affection and devotion. This sentiment encourages the listener to embrace the flaws of their partner and cherish them for who they are, imperfections and all.One intriguing interpretation of the song's theme lies in the concept of destiny versus free will. The lyrics evoke the idea that despite having choices and agency in our lives, there are certain instances where it feels like a higher power is guiding our path and pushing us towards someone who is meant to be. This interpretation suggests that even when we try to resist or deny the inevitability of love, it finds a way to capture our hearts and lead us towards our soulmate.Overall, "It Had To Be You" explores themes of fate, patience, authenticity, acceptance, and the feeling of inevitability when it comes to love. Bob Dylan's poetic lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that feels destined and unexplainable, reminding us that sometimes love has a way of finding us even when we least expect it. The song serves as a beautiful reminder to believe in the power of love and the incredible journeys it can take us on.