A Message to Our So-Called "Allies"
(in the words of Bob Dylan)

January 24, 2003
by John Gaver

This afternoon, as I scrolled through my CD collection, looking for something that I had not listened to in a while, I happened to settle on "Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits".  I always enjoy listening to Dylan.  But today, as I listened to "Positively 4th Street", I realized that the words were quite fitting as a message from the United States to our so-called "Allies", most notably, but not limited to, France and Germany.

I tried to think of a lead in to the lyrics, having something to do with how we bailed out France and beat Germany.  But, the more that I thought about it, I realized that the lyrics say it all.  In the following, I left out only two stanzas that did not apply.  So, without further explanation, here is:

Action America's Message to Our So-Called "Allies"
(You know who you are.)

Positively 4th Street
(by Bob Dylan)

You've gotta lotta nerve, to say you are my friend.
When I was down, you just stood there grinnin'.
You've gotta lotta nerve, to say you got a helping hand to lend.
You just want to be on the side that's winnin'

You say you've lost your faith, but that's not where its at.
Ya have no faith to lose - an' ya know it.
Do you take me for such a fool, to think I'd make contact
With a one who tries to hide what he don't know to begin with?

You see me on the street. You always act surprised.
Ya say "How are you?" "Good luck." But ya don't mean it.
When you know as well as me, you'd rather see me paralized,
Why don't you just come out once and scream it?

No, I do not feel that good when I see the heartbreaks you embrace.
If I was a master thief perhaps I'd rob them.
And tho I know you're dissatisfied with your position and your place.
Don't you understand, its not my problem?

I wish that for just one time you could stand inside my shoes
And just for that one moment I could be you.
Yes, I wish that for just one time you could stand inside my shoes.
You'd know what a drag it is to see you.

 

Copyright 2003 John Gaver
All rights reserved

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