ABSTRACT
The chapter offers an interpretation of the first period of Bob Dylan’s career (1961–1963) in the perspective of the theory of rites of passage. As Dylan faced and transgressed subsequent levels of artistic initiation, the period marks several such important moments, e.g. gaining fame and crystallisation of his artistic identity, exploring new creative territories, meeting new people and using opportunities that came his way. It shows how greatly such a sequence of events and places, as well as the happenings, people and inspirations he encountered influenced his artistic attitude. The discussion also demonstrates how he followed a specific route of an anonymous newcomer from the North to the all-American bard loved by the audience, music journalists and other artists.
