Bob Dylan's London trip inspired iconic songs, new book reveals

In his new book, “Bob Dylan: Through the Open Window (1956-1963)”, historian Sean Wilentz explores the formative years of Bob Dylan, focusing on his transition from musical sketches to iconic songs.

Wilentz, a Princeton historian and Rolling Stone contributor, details Dylan’s influential trip to London in late 1962. Arranged by manager Albert Grossman, the trip was intended for Dylan to appear in a BBC television drama, “The Madhouse on Castle Street”.

The period in London proved creatively transformative. The environment helped inspire the political song “Masters of War” and the classic ballad “Girl From the North Country”, which was written following a chance encounter with a mysterious woman.