I read something that made the last verse even more interesting than your interpretation, specifically about the doorknob. The key is the word "about". Mentally change it to "around". He received the letter around the time the doorknob broke. The doorknob that would have let him open the door to Desolation Row and leave...hence leaving him trapped there. Its like a final snap and realization that you will never leave desolation. A lot heavier than an innocuous line about the letter writer's doorknob to anywhere breaking.
This was a really interesting and thoughtful piece. I’ve thought about this song for over fifty years, and you gave me some important insights. Thanks much.
I read something that made the last verse even more interesting than your interpretation, specifically about the doorknob. The key is the word "about". Mentally change it to "around". He received the letter around the time the doorknob broke. The doorknob that would have let him open the door to Desolation Row and leave...hence leaving him trapped there. Its like a final snap and realization that you will never leave desolation. A lot heavier than an innocuous line about the letter writer's doorknob to anywhere breaking.
I love this idea! Thanks for sending it along.
This was a really interesting and thoughtful piece. I’ve thought about this song for over fifty years, and you gave me some important insights. Thanks much.
Thanks for reading - so glad you enjoyed it!