Dear Beanster,

Careful what you say about people's opinions. Saying that just because someone wasn't around for an event or a persons life doesn't mean that they can't have an opinion about it or be very knowledgeble on the subject. Just look at any history book or listen to a historian. You can have a PH.d in Ancient Civilization's without having lived at tat time. Any history book written is inevidebly going to have a little bit of the writer's opinion in it. That's why we can go to a book store or library and find many different books on the same subject.

As for Dylan, his music has always sparked a love hate relationship with the public. I think you have to look at how widely known his is right now while he is still alive. He is considered to be an icon and he is still living. With many artists (Not all. Because I know I will get some flack.) true fame and recognition doesn't come until after their death. Look at J.S. Bach. It wasn't until Mozart uncovered some of his work and writings that Bach received the recognition that he so rightly deserved. Dylan's popularity spans generations even before his death. He will be someone we will listening to and debating about forever.

Bottielli's Niece