Cinderella Man

Rush's song "Cinderella Man" tells the story of a modest man from Mandrake who comes into wealth and seeks to use it for a greater purpose. The protagonist is driven by a sense of goodness and morality, which leads others to label him as insane. This character is depicted as having delusions of grandeur and visions of splendor, yet he remains undeterred, walking in the rain with eyes wide open and a heart undefended. His innocence remains untarnished despite the world's harsh judgments.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the resilience and determination of the Cinderella Man. He continues to pursue his plans and dreams, even though others cannot understand his motivations. The lyrics suggest that his dreams and plans are something that cannot be stolen, no matter how hard others might try. This reflects a theme of perseverance and the importance of holding onto one's vision, regardless of external pressures or misunderstandings.

In the latter part of the song, the Cinderella Man faces a betrayal of love, which awakens him to the harsh realities of the world. However, this awakening also brings a sense of purpose. He uses his wealth to challenge the hunger and suffering he sees around him. Despite being labeled as a manic depressive, he remains steadfast in his mission. The song portrays him as a figure who, despite his struggles and the world's attempts to fight him, cannot be defeated. His purposeful motion and unwavering spirit highlight the strength of the human will and the power of dreams.