Dylan's song, ''Cross the Green Mountain'' for the Civil War pic ''Gods and Generals'' reflects on mortality, like 1997's ''Time Out of Mind,'' but leaves the ominous production and brooding behind. ''Memories linger, sad yet sweet/And I think of the souls in heaven who we'll meet,'' he croaks, sounding optimistic and resigned. His voice is shot and the melody's a bit maudlin, but Dylan remains an unmatched poet. We hope he doesn't cross the green mountain anytime soon.

