In the fourth verse, we are again stranded in time as the images showcase Southern traditions, some noble, some dubious. The refinement and gentility of the well-dressed young couple is undercut by the illegal whiskey they’re drinking. We also rocket back in time to see the degradation of prisoners in a chain gang, but when Dylan follows that up with “I can hear them rebels yell,” it conjures the battle cry of Confederate soldiers that struck fear into their Northern enemies.
A most intriguing take on Dylan's song, as well as on the stew of Southern history. Here are a couple versions.
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