Bob Dylan's Most Heartbreaking Love Song

The singer-songwriter's 1966 track "Just Like a Woman" explores the duality of a woman on the brink.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Bob Dylan's 1966 song "Just Like a Woman" is considered one of his most heartbreaking and emotionally impactful tracks. The song delves into the devastating highs and lows of an unnamed woman whose identity remains debated, with Dylan capturing her vulnerability and inner turmoil through his raspy, lilting vocals and the song's slow, acoustic backing. While the song has been criticized as misogynistic, it remains a powerful tribute to a woman struggling with her own demons.

Why it matters

"Just Like a Woman" is widely regarded as one of Dylan's most iconic and influential songs, showcasing his talent for crafting emotionally complex and nuanced narratives. The song's enduring impact and the ongoing debate around its portrayal of women highlight Dylan's skill as a songwriter and the lasting influence of his work.

The details

The song features Dylan's signature harmonica and acoustic guitar, with his raspy voice singing about a woman "losing her innocence" as she gains success and status. The lyrics explore the contrast between the woman's maturity and vulnerability, with Dylan describing her "fog, her amphetamine, and her pearls" and lamenting that her "long-time curse" makes it impossible for him to remain with her. While some have criticized the song as misogynistic, it is seen as a devastating portrait of a woman torn apart by the fast-paced lifestyle she thought would bring her joy.

  • "Just Like a Woman" was released in 1966 on Bob Dylan's seventh album, Blonde on Blonde.

The players

Bob Dylan

One of the most prolific and emotionally impactful songwriters of all time, known for his poetic lyrics and influential body of work.

Joan Baez

A folk singer who was romantically linked to Dylan in the early 1960s, though some believe the song is not about her.

Edie Sedgwick

An Andy Warhol darling who dominated the downtown New York art scene in the 1960s before her substance abuse and mental health issues led to her decline and untimely death at age 28, leading some to believe she inspired the song.

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What they’re saying

“Please don't let on that you knew me when/ I was hungry, and it was your world.”

— Bob Dylan, Songwriter (Blonde on Blonde)

The takeaway

"Just Like a Woman" remains one of Bob Dylan's most iconic and emotionally powerful songs, showcasing his talent for crafting nuanced narratives that explore the complexities of the human experience. While the song's portrayal of women has been debated, it stands as a powerful tribute to a woman struggling with her own demons and the devastating impact of fame and success.