Positively 4th Street is a song by Bob Dylan, released as a single in 1965. It’s known for its biting lyrics and was famously interpreted as Dylan’s response to criticism from former friends and associates. The song reflects Dylan’s disillusionment and bitterness towards those who had once been close to him but had turned against him.

The lyrics are sharp and confrontational, with Dylan expressing feelings of betrayal and resentment towards the individuals addressed in the song. The title “Positively 4th Street” refers to a street in Greenwich Village, New York City, known for its bohemian atmosphere and association with the folk music scene of the 1960s.

Despite its confrontational tone, Positively 4th Street became one of Dylan’s most popular and enduring songs, showcasing his skill as a lyricist and his ability to capture complex emotions in his music.

Bob Dylan – Positively 4th Street Lyrics

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

You say I let you down, ya know its not like that
If you’re so hurt, why then don’t you show it?
You say you’ve lost your faith, but that’s not where its at
You have no faith to lose, and ya know it

I know the reason, that you talked behind my back
I used to be among the crowd you’re in with
Do you take me for such a fool, to think I’d make contact
With the one who tries to hide what he don’t know to begin with?

You see me on the street, you always act surprised
You say “how are you?”, “good luck”, but ya don’t mean it
When you know as well as me, you’d rather see me paralyzed
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