Meaning of The Best Is Yet To Come by Bob Dylan

In Bob Dylan's classic song, 'The Best Is Yet To Come', the overarching theme of hope and anticipation resonates through every line. It’s a beautifully crafted song that captures the essence of looking forward to the future with optimism and the belief that the best is always yet to come. Within the lyrics, there are multiple standout phrases that contribute to the development of these themes in unexpected and imaginative ways.The song begins by comparing life to a tree of plums, symbolizing the opportunities and experiences that come our way. The line "Out of the tree of life I just picked me a plum" suggests that the singer has already found something special in life. This can be interpreted as finding love or any other meaningful experience that brings joy and fulfillment. It sets the tone of the song, indicating that the protagonist's life is already good, but there is still more to be discovered.As the song progresses, we encounter the lines "Still it's a real good bet the best is yet to come." This lyric speaks to the perennial optimism that lies within the human spirit. It implies that no matter how good things are in the present, there is always the potential for something even greater in the future. It encourages us to embrace life with open arms and eagerly anticipate the untapped joys that await us.The next standout line states, "Wait till the warm-up's underway, wait till our lips have met." This imagery emphasizes the anticipation and excitement of a new relationship or a deepening connection. It suggests that even in the early stages of a romance, there is a sense of exhilaration, and the best is still on its way. This lyric reinforces the notion that love and companionship are not finite experiences but rather ongoing journeys of discovery and growth.Moving forward, the line "Wait till you see that sunshine day, you ain't seen nothin' yet" paints a vivid picture of the potential for a brighter future. It suggests that the best is yet to come in terms of experiences or achievements that will surpass anything already encountered. This lyric could be interpreted more broadly as a reminder to remain open to new opportunities and to keep striving for personal growth and fulfillment.The subsequent line, "Wait till your charms are right for these arms to surround," hints at the importance of timing in relationships. It suggests that for love to truly flourish, it requires the perfect alignment of circumstances and emotions. This theme of timing and alignment adds a layer of depth to the song, reminding listeners that patience and persistence are essential ingredients for true happiness.Lastly, the line "Wait till I draw you near, wait till you see that sunshine place, ain't nothin' like it here" captures the idea that the best is worth waiting for. It conveys the sense that the destination, whatever it may be, will far exceed any prior experiences. This lyric implies that the journey itself may have had its challenges, but the destination, the "sunshine place," will be so extraordinary that it will make all past struggles fade away.In conclusion, 'The Best Is Yet To Come' is a song that encapsulates the human spirit's unwavering optimism and hope for the future. Through its carefully crafted lyrics, we explore the themes of anticipation, love, timing, growth, and the endless possibilities life has to offer. Each standout lyric weaves its own imaginative tale, providing unexpected perspectives on these themes. Ultimately, the song's underlying message is clear: no matter how wonderful things may be in the present, there is always something even better waiting just around the corner. So let us embrace the journey and eagerly anticipate the incredible experiences that lie ahead.