Story Line and Song Structure
The song describes the feelings and impressions of a dying deputy, who can no longer continue his role as a law enforcer. The song consists of four chords in the key of G major: G, D, Am7, and C. The basic pattern throughout the song is G-D-Am7-Am7 and then G-D-C-C, and this is repeated. Over the years, Dylan has changed the lyrics, as have others who have performed this song. Musically the song is very similar to Neil Young's song "Helpless", recorded in 1969.
Read more about this topic: Knockin' On Heaven's Door
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