Mary Ann
Bob Dylan · Dylan [1973]
The ship is waiting and the wind blows high
And I am bound away for the sea, Mary Ann.
Ten thousand miles away from home, ten thousand miles or more
The sea may freeze and the earth may burn
If I never nomore return to you, Mary Ann.
Oh, don't you see that crow fly high, she'll surely turn to white
If never I prove false to you
Let the day turn to night, my dear, Mary Ann.
If I had a flask of gin and sugar here for two
And a great big bowl for two to mix it in
I'd pour a drink for you my dear, Mary Ann
Yes, I'd pour a drink for you my dear, Mary Ann.
Mary Ann
Bob Dylan's "Mary Ann" stands as a defining track from his 1973 album, *Dylan [1973]*, marking a pivotal shift in his musical direction. Recorded during a period of intense personal turmoil and artistic reinvention, the song blends folk-rock instrumentation with a haunting, minimalist approach that stripped away the elaborate arrangements of his earlier work. The recording captures a raw, introspective mood, reflecting Dylan's exploration of themes regarding memory, loss, and the passage of time. Its sparse production and distinctive vocal delivery have cemented its status as a critical favorite, influencing countless artists who followed in the post-folk era. The track remains a testament to Dylan's ability to distill complex emotional narratives into concise, powerful musical statements.