The Byrds were an American rock band formed in Los Angeles, California in 1964. They are known for popularizing the folk rock genre and for their hits such as “Mr. Tambourine Man” and “Turn! Turn! Turn!”. One of their lesser-known songs, “My Back Pages”, was written by Bob Dylan and covered by The Byrds in 1967. Here are the lyrics to “My Back Pages” by The Byrds:
Verse 1:
Crimson flames tied through my ears
Rollin’ high and mighty traps
Pounced with fire on flaming roads
Using ideas as my maps
“We’ll meet on edges, soon,” said I
Proud ‘neath heated brow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
The first verse of “My Back Pages” sets the tone for the rest of the song. The speaker reflects on his past experiences and how he used to think and act. He acknowledges that he was once proud and confident, but now realizes that he was naive and immature.
Chorus:
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
The chorus repeats the lines from the end of the first verse. The speaker emphasizes the idea that he has grown and changed since his earlier days, and that he is now more open-minded and accepting of new ideas.
Verse 2:
Half-wracked prejudice leaped forth
“Rip down all hate,” I screamed
Lies that life is black and white
Spoke from my skull, I dreamed
Romantic facts of musketeers
Foundationed deep, somehow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
The second verse of “My Back Pages” explores the speaker’s past prejudices and how he used to see the world in black and white. He now realizes that life is more complicated than that, and that he was wrong to hold such narrow-minded views.
Chorus:
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
The chorus repeats once again, emphasizing the speaker’s growth and change.
Verse 3:
Girls’ faces formed the forward path
From phony jealousy
To memorizing politics
Of ancient history
Flung down by corpse evangelists
Unthought of, though somehow
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
In the third verse of “My Back Pages”, the speaker reflects on his past relationships and how he used to be jealous and possessive. He also mentions his interest in politics and history. He acknowledges that he was influenced by others, but now realizes that he has his own thoughts and ideas.
Chorus:
Ah, but I was so much older then
I’m younger than that now
The chorus repeats for the final time, bringing the song to a close.
Overall, “My Back Pages” is a introspective and reflective song that explores themes of growth, change, and acceptance. The lyrics, written by Bob Dylan and performed by The Byrds, continue to resonate with listeners today.
