Roll The Bones

Rush's song 'Roll The Bones' delves into the themes of fate, chance, and the randomness of life. The lyrics suggest that while hard work and good fortune are often linked, success is not always guaranteed. The line 'Good work is the key to good fortune' implies that effort is essential, but 'sometimes the winner takes nothing' highlights the unpredictability of outcomes. This duality is a central theme, emphasizing that while we can control our actions, the results are often out of our hands.

The chorus, 'Why are we here? Because we're here. Roll the bones,' encapsulates a philosophical acceptance of life's randomness. It suggests that existence and events occur without a grand design or purpose, and we must navigate this uncertainty by taking risks and making the best of our circumstances. The metaphor of 'rolling the bones'—a reference to rolling dice—symbolizes embracing chance and the unknown, rather than being paralyzed by fear or indecision.

The song also touches on deeper existential questions and social issues. Lines like 'Why are little ones born only to suffer' and 'If there's some immortal power to control the dice?' question the fairness of life and the existence of a higher power. This reflects a skepticism towards traditional beliefs and a call to face reality as it is. The rap section further emphasizes the importance of dealing with facts and reality, dismissing superstitions and encouraging proactive engagement with life's challenges. Ultimately, 'Roll The Bones' is a call to action, urging listeners to embrace life's uncertainties with courage and resilience.