Literary Analysis: Fall from Wealth

Study Notes

The Life of a Rolling Stone

The narrator describes someone who was once wealthy and proud, but has now fallen on hard times, forced to scrounge for their next meal.
This person was warned about their eventual downfall, but they didn't listen.
Despite being educated at the finest schools, they never learned how to survive on their own and are now struggling to cope with their new reality.

A Life of Dependence

The narrator suggests that this person relied heavily on others for their sense of self-worth and never learned to be self-sufficient.
They were used to being entertained and pampered by others, but now they're forced to fend for themselves.
The narrator implies that this person was blind to the fact that they were being used by others, who were only interested in their wealth and status.

A Loss of Identity

The narrator describes this person as a "complete unknown," implying that they've lost their sense of identity and direction.
They're forced to confront the harsh reality of their situation, and the narrator asks repeatedly, "How does it feel?" to emphasize the shock and despair they must be experiencing.
The song's refrain, "Like a rolling stone," drives home the idea that this person is now adrift, without a sense of purpose or belonging.

The Life of a Rolling Stone

• A person who was once wealthy and proud has fallen on hard times, struggling to find their next meal. • This person was warned about their eventual downfall but ignored the warnings. • Despite being educated at the finest schools, they never learned how to be self-sufficient and are now struggling to cope with their new reality.

A Life of Dependence

• The person relied heavily on others for their sense of self-worth and never learned to be independent. • They were used to being entertained and pampered by others, but now they're forced to fend for themselves. • Others were only interested in their wealth and status, and the person was blind to being used.

A Loss of Identity

• The person has lost their sense of identity and direction, becoming a "complete unknown". • They're forced to confront the harsh reality of their situation, experiencing shock and despair. • The song's refrain, "Like a rolling stone," emphasizes the idea that this person is now adrift, without a sense of purpose or belonging.