Ride Like The Wind

Saxon's 'Ride Like The Wind' is a powerful anthem that captures the essence of a relentless quest for freedom. The song's protagonist is a fugitive, driven by an unyielding desire to escape his past and reach the border of Mexico. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has lived a tumultuous life, born to a lawless father and accustomed to a life of violence and rebellion. This background sets the stage for his urgent need to 'ride like the wind' to reclaim his freedom.

The recurring theme of riding like the wind symbolizes the protagonist's desperate and swift flight from his past. The night, his weakened body, and the lack of time for sleep all emphasize the urgency and peril of his journey. The border of Mexico represents a distant, almost mythical place of safety and liberation. The repeated lines 'I've got such a long way to go' and 'to be free again' underscore the arduous nature of his quest and his unwavering determination to achieve it.

The song also delves into themes of defiance and nonconformity. The protagonist's refusal to 'do as I was told' and his history of living on the edge highlight his rebellious spirit. This defiance is both his strength and his curse, propelling him forward even as it isolates him from society. The imagery of being 'accused and tried and told to hang' adds a layer of injustice and persecution, further fueling his need to escape. Ultimately, 'Ride Like The Wind' is a compelling narrative of a man's fight for freedom against all odds, driven by a fierce and unyielding spirit.