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December 18th, 2006

Greenwich VillageNew York in Song
“Greenwich Village”

I wish that for just one time
You could stand inside my shoes
And just for that one moment
I could be you

- Bob Dylan, “Positively Fourth Street”

 

Before he became one of the most celebrated songwriters in modern history, Bob Dylan was the focal point of the folk rock scene that emerged from Greenwich Village during the 1960’s.  “Positively Fourth Street” – the title refers to West 4th Street, which snakes its way across most of the Village – is one of many Dylan songs influenced by his life in Greenwich Village. 

Primarily identified as the area below 14th Street, above Houston Street and west of Broadway, Greenwich Village is famous for its bohemian history.  For years, it was home to musicians, artists and actors – both famous and struggling – who infused the area with a spirit of energy and creativity.  Main strips include West 4th Street and Bleecker Street, which are populated with restaurants, cafes and interesting boutique shops specializing in everything from collectible record albums to designer eyeglasses.  There are only a handful of high-rise buildings, because the neighborhood is landmarked and new structures must adhere to strict rules and conform to the area’s existing architectural context.

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