Freewill

Rush · Retrospective 1974-80

There are those who think that life
Has nothing left to chance,
A host of holy horrors
To direct our aimless dance

A planet of playthings
We dance on the strings
Of powers we cannot perceive
"The stars aren't aligned -
Or the gods are malign"
Blame is better to give than receive.

You can choose a ready guide
In some celestial voice.
If you choose not to decide
You still have made a choice
You can choose from phantom fears
And kindness that can kill;
I will choose a path that's clear-
I will choose free will

There are those who think that
They've been dealt a losing hand,
The cards were stacked against them-
They weren't born in Lotus-Land

All pre-ordained
A prisoner in chains
A victim of venomous fate
Kicked in the face
You can pray for a place
In heaven's unearthly estate

You can choose a ready guide
In some celestial voice.
If you choose not to decide
You still have made a choice
You can choose from phantom fears
And kindness that can kill;
I will choose a path that's clear-
I will choose free will

Each of us
A cell of awareness
Imperfect and incomplete
Genetic blends
With uncertain ends
On a fortune hunt
That's far too fleet.

You can choose a ready guide
In some celestial voice.
If you choose not to decide
You still have made a choice
You can choose from phantom fears
And kindness that can kill;
I will choose a path that's clear-
I will choose free will!!!

Freewill

Freewill is a seminal track by Rush, appearing on the 1980 retrospective compilation Retrospective 1974-80. The song exemplifies the band's progressive rock style, characterized by its intricate guitar work, complex time signatures, and the distinctive vocal harmonies of Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson. Released during a period where Rush was refining their technical proficiency while maintaining melodic accessibility, the recording showcases the group's ability to blend heavy metal riffs with orchestral textures. As a staple of their discography, Freewill remains a defining piece of 1970s and 80s progressive rock, influencing countless artists who followed in the wake of its ambitious composition and dynamic performance.