Fly By Night

Rush's 'Fly By Night' is a song that encapsulates the spirit of change and the desire for a fresh start. The lyrics convey a strong sense of urgency and determination to break free from the constraints of the past and embark on a new journey. The protagonist of the song feels that it's time to leave behind their current life, symbolized by the phrase 'it's time I was king, now not just one more pawn,' which suggests a desire to take control of their destiny rather than being a passive participant in the game of life.

The repeated chorus 'Fly by night, away from here / Change my life again' serves as a mantra for transformation. The act of flying by night implies a stealthy or sudden departure, emphasizing the need for a clean break and the pursuit of something better. The mention of the ship not coming indicates a realization that waiting for an external change is futile, and it's up to the individual to take action. This sentiment is reinforced by the line 'My ship isn't coming and I just can't pretend,' which shows an acceptance of reality and the futility of waiting for change to happen on its own.

The latter part of the song introduces themes of introspection and the natural progression of life. The change of seasons is used as a metaphor for the inevitability of change and the natural human inclination to seek new experiences. The protagonist's decision to leave their homeland and play a 'lone hand' signifies a bold step towards independence and self-discovery. The song ends with a sense of beginning, not an end, as the protagonist's life 'begins today,' marking the start of a new chapter filled with possibilities.