The syntax suggests his growing the beard was part of his depression - shaving and other hygiene/self-care stuff can go out the window with it. Jeff did often have a scraggly one at this time (see lots of footage in I am trying to break your heart), sorta like Dylan's in the early 70s. The consciously folky melody and guitar part and number bit in the title add to the reference.
The syntax suggests his growing the beard was part of his depression - shaving and other hygiene/self-care stuff can go out the window with it. Jeff did often have a scraggly one at this time (see lots of footage in I am trying to break your heart), sorta like Dylan's in the early 70s. The consciously folky melody and guitar part and number bit in the title add to the reference.