Don't Think Twice About Season One Finale

The first season finale of Mad Men left viewers with a sad and ambiguous ending of Don sitting by himself accompanied by Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright.” This song is reflective of many of the character’s current moods as season one came to a close. Bob Dylan once introduced this song as, “a statement that maybe you can say to make yourself feel better… as if you were talking to yourself.” It shows that despite conflict, people can carry on scarred, but strong. Don and Betty have hit a major rough patch in their marriage as Don’s infidelity weakens their bond and happiness. Don has finally come to realize his lack of commitment to his family (including Betty, his kids, and his brother Adam), and the viewer senses feelings of guilt and sorrow for his shortcomings. The song embodies this harsh conflict and inserts a glimmer of hope through forgiveness and simply by moving on and dealing with problems without resentment. Dylan wanted this song to make people feel better as one can always deal with their issues and work to make things better. Dylan sings, “An' it ain't no use to sit and wonder why, babe. It’ll never do some how.” Producers of the show wanted these lyrics to sink in as viewers felt the weight and unhappiness of Don’s problems while still holding hope for resolution. The song is saying that it’s time to move on, resolve issues, and don’t think twice, it’s alright.

Link referenced: Last.fm.