About the song
Released in 1981 as the lead single off their eighth studio album, Moving Pictures, “Tom Sawyer” is a progressive rock anthem by the Canadian rock band Rush. The song is a six-minute epic that tells the story of a rebellious young man who is always getting into trouble. The lyrics are full of metaphors and double entendres, and the music is complex and driving. “Tom Sawyer” is one of Rush’s most popular songs, and it has been covered by many other artists.
The song’s lyrics are inspired by the character of Tom Sawyer from Mark Twain’s novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The narrator of the song is a young man who is clearly smitten with Tom Sawyer, and he describes him as a “modern-day warrior” with a “mean, mean stride” and a “mean, mean pride.” However,he also acknowledges that Tom’s mind is “not for rent” and that he should not be “put down as arrogant.”
The music of “Tom Sawyer” is complex and driving, with a strong emphasis on keyboards and synthesizers. The song begins with a slow, atmospheric intro, but it quickly builds into a fast-paced rocker. The verses are characterized by Geddy Lee’s high-pitched vocals and Alex Lifeson’s intricate guitar riffs. The chorus is a powerful and anthemic affair,with Lee’s vocals soaring over a bed of heavy guitars and drums.
“Tom Sawyer” was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 4 on the Canadian RPM chart. The song has also been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). “Tom Sawyer” has been praised for its complex music, its catchy lyrics, and its powerful performances. It is considered to be one of Rush’s signature songs, and it has had a lasting impact on the world of rock music.
In addition to its commercial and critical success, “Tom Sawyer” has also had a significant social impact. The song has been used in a number of films and television shows, and it has been covered by many other artists. “Tom Sawyer” has also been praised for its positive message of rebellion and individuality. The song has inspired generations of young people to be themselves and to stand up for what they believe in.
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Lyrics
A modern-day warriorMean, mean strideToday’s Tom SawyerMean, mean prideThough his mind is not for rentDon’t put him down as arrogantHis reserve, a quiet defenseRiding out the day’s eventsThe riverWhat you say about his companyIs what you say about societyCatch the mist, catch the mythCatch the mystery, catch the driftThe world is, the world isLove and life are deepMaybe as his skies are wideToday’s Tom Sawyer, he gets high on youAnd the space he invades, he gets by on youNo, his mind is not for rentTo any god or governmentAlways hopeful, yet discontentHe knows changes aren’t permanentBut change isAnd what you say about his companyIs what you say about societyCatch the witness, catch the witCatch the spirit, catch the spitThe world is, the world isLove and life are deepMaybe as his eyes are wideExit the warriorToday’s Tom SawyerHe gets high on youAnd the energy you tradeHe gets right on toThe friction of the day