How Caribbean Wind By Bob Dylan Was Rewritten Multiple Times Before Being Abandoned

March 21, 2025

Bob Dylan is a name that resonates with music lovers around the globe, known for his poetic lyrics and captivating melodies. But what many people don’t realize is the story behind one of his most intriguing songs, “Caribbean Wind.” The journey of this song is not just about the notes and the verses; it’s a glimpse into the mind of a true artist, grappling with inspiration and the pressures of creativity.

It started in the early 1980s when Dylan found himself in a creative whirlwind. He was coming off the success of his previous work, but the expectations weighed heavily on him. “Caribbean Wind” began as a flicker of an idea—an echo of his thoughts about love, loss, and longing. As he sat down to write, he poured his heart into the lyrics, seeking to capture the essence of the Caribbean spirit. However, this initial draft wasn’t quite right. Dylan, being the perfectionist he was, rewrote it again and again, hoping to find the magic that eluded him. Each version brought something new, but none seemed to truly reflect what was bubbling inside him.

The more Dylan tinkered with the song, the more he became entangled in his own doubts. Friends and fellow musicians would hear snippets of his latest attempts, but even they could sense his frustration. The song changed shape—sometimes it was upbeat and lively, other times it turned introspective and somber. Dylan’s relentless pursuit of perfection, however, became a double-edged sword. While his passion was inspiring, it also led him to a point of exhaustion. He found himself caught in a loop, shifting the lyrics and melody, but never quite achieving what he envisioned.

After several months of this relentless reworking, Dylan made a tough decision. He decided to set “Caribbean Wind” aside. It was a bittersweet moment for him; he had invested so much time and energy, but he realized that sometimes letting go is also a part of the creative process. This decision reflected a significant turning point in his career. He learned that not every song needs to make it to the stage, and that even the greatest artists encounter setbacks.

Despite abandoning the song, the experience deepened Dylan’s understanding of his craft. He grew from the struggle, allowing it to inform future projects. The lessons learned through “Caribbean Wind” echoed in the music that followed, reminding him of the importance of authenticity over perfection. He became more open to embracing the rawness of his emotions and experiences, crafting songs with even greater depth and resonance.

In the end, “Caribbean Wind” symbolizes more than just a song that never came to fruition; it embodies resilience, patience, and the unyielding spirit of an artist. Bob Dylan’s journey with this piece teaches us that creativity is not a straight path but a winding road filled with twists and turns. It shows that sometimes, the things we create are not as important as the growth we experience along the way. And that, in itself, is truly inspiring.