On October 13, 2016, world history was made. Legendary American singer and songwriter, Bob Dylan, was awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize for Literature. Anyone who receives this prestigious award should be revered, but Dylan receiving the prize indicated “The Times They Are A-Changing.”
Dylan is the first musician to receive the Nobel Prize for literature. This is huge for lyricists everywhere because now they can be recognized by one of most prestigious committees in the world. However, some people have mixed feelings over the selection since an author, novelist, etc. was not awarded. The question of “what is literature?” is now being evaluated.
The Swedish committee supported its selection by stating that Dylan is one of the most influential poets of his time and therefore deserved the award. I am in total agreeance. His “poems” (also known as lyrics since they are put to music) have told stories, brought major issues to light and have been largely impactful for many of those in the creative genres.
As a future educator in the field of “literature,” I for one believe that the award is most well deserved since literature has no bounds in style or type. Merriam-Webster defines literature as, “writings in prose or verse; especially: writings having excellence of form or expression and expressing ideas of permanent or universal interest.” Dylan’s work falls perfectly into this definition because he writes songs that people relate to in excellent form.
Dylan’s recognition has opened up the world for many modern day musicians who are lyric geniuses. If the Nobel Prize committee ever reads this young aspiring writer’s work, I would like to propose some younger groups and artists who could one day be recipients of this award for their work.
Mumford and Sons
The British Folk band has stolen my heart with their impactful words. I have been a fan since their earliest album, "Sigh No More," but every release since has been just as captivating. Right now, I’m listening to “Hot Gates” off their "Wilder Mind" album like it’s going out of style since “though we cry, we must stay alive.”
Twenty-One Pilots
I was not always a fan of this duo but after going to one of their concerts this last summer, I was sold. Their lyrics are relatable for us millennials who are a little quirky but try really hard at life. My inner awkward, single, semi-courageous self really just wants to go up to someone and scream “my taste in music is your face” from “Tear in My Heart” and see what happens.
Florence Welch
Oh my dear Florence, thank you for getting me through my “Dog Days” and reminding me that “it’s always darkest before the dawn.” I don’t know what I would have done without her lyrics getting me through my down moments.
Lin-Manual Miranda
Please go do yourself a favor and listen to the "Hamilton: An American Musical" soundtrack right now.
Ed Sheeran
By telling stories of heart break, miscarriage, dementia, loss, new found love, city sounds, drunken nights and much more, Sheeran has related to so many listeners and has become a revolutionary in poetry and music and reminds me a lot of Dylan.
Thank you, Mr. Bob Dylan, for impacting this person’s life and many others. You’ve inspired millions, told thousands of stories, and deserve your Nobel Peace Prize for Literature.
