Resist

Rush's song 'Resist' delves into the complexities of human resilience and the internal battles we face. The lyrics explore the paradoxes of resistance and surrender, highlighting the challenges of maintaining one's integrity and desires in the face of various temptations and frustrations. The repeated phrase 'I can learn to resist' underscores the effort required to stand firm against external pressures, while the exceptions—temptation, pain, frustration, and injustice—reveal the vulnerabilities that even the strongest individuals encounter.

The song also touches on the theme of compromise, suggesting that while one can learn to coexist with many things, there are certain core desires and principles that should not be compromised. This is particularly evident in lines like 'I can learn to compromise / Anything but my desires,' which emphasize the importance of staying true to oneself. The mention of 'aiming low' and 'injustice' further illustrates the moral and ethical boundaries that the narrator is unwilling to cross, even as they navigate the complexities of life.

The final stanza introduces a philosophical reflection on the nature of surrender and victory. The lines 'You can surrender / Without a prayer / But never really pray / Pray without surrender' and 'You can fight / Without ever winning / But never ever win / Win without a fight' suggest that true success and fulfillment come from engaging fully with life's challenges, rather than avoiding them. This duality of resistance and persistence encapsulates the essence of the human spirit, making 'Resist' a powerful anthem of inner strength and determination.