Rush’s “Tom Sawyer” Lyrics Meaning
Tom Sawyer is a popular fictional character dating back to 19th century American literature. And succinctly put, what he is most known for is being adventurous.
And whereas this song is named after him, it is not directly based on his story. Rather the lyrics originated from a poem Pye Dubois had written entitled “Louis the Lawyer”. So actually what the title of this track alludes to its subject having characteristics similar to Tom Sawyer in that both are apparently free-minded and adventurous.
Tom is a Free-Minded Warrior and an Everyman
More specifically, the guy who is at the center of this song is portrayed as being “a modern-way warrior”. This is not to imply that he is an actual soldier. Rather it is more indicative of his attitude. And perhaps the best way to describe his overall disposition is one in which he is not compelled to submit to any authority in his pursuit to find fulfillment his life. So for instance, he does not subscribe to any religious doctrine, nor is he patriotic in nature. And the way the lyrics read are as if the reason he is so is that none of these types of institutions have what he is looking for in his heart.
There are also other metaphors in this song which are more-challenging to decipher. But the general idea they seem to point is that “Tom Sawyer” is sort of an everyman. Or stated differently, his character is a representation of how many people feel internally. They are withdrawn and free-minded like Tom, but such should not be attributable to arrogance. Rather the situation comes off more as if they are in search of the full richness life has to offer and do not deem any of the popular paths presented towards reaching such as being viable.
Conclusion
So that being said, “Tom Sawyer” is also an ideological figure, as in a hero within the context of this song. For instance, his vibrant energy is portrayed as being infectious. And the general feeling, which is perhaps why this song has remained popular throughout the ages, is that he is a representation of what it is like for an individual to be free mentally within the context of Western society.
Facts about “Tom Sawyer”
The writers of this song are Rush members Geddy Lee, Neil Peart and Alex Lifeson. And they were assisted by lyricist Pye Dubois.
Rush also produced “Tom Sawyer” along with Terry Brown.
“Tom Sawyer” was released by Anthem Records on 12 February 1981 as part of Rush’s album, “Moving Pictures”. And a couple of weeks later it was officially issued as the first single from that project.
This song has an extensive history of being featured in pop media on shows like “Family Guy” (2006) and “The Sopranos” (2007) and movies such as “I Love You, Man” (2009).
“Tom Sawyer” charted in both Canada and the United States. And a live rendition from Rush’s album “Exit… Stage Left” also made it onto the UK Singles Chart.
As aforementioned this song has remained popular throughout the years. In fact the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame formally recognized “Tom Sawyer” in 2010.
Excellent read, thank you! Love the way you have with words, not unlike how Neil Peart did. Wish I could express as well. 🙂
Most over rated band of the latter part of the 20th century.
Blaa blaa blaa They are a three man symphony!!!!
Most over-rated?
Seriously? You poor man …
What you say about their company
Is what you say about society!
If that were true (it’s not: all three members of this band are virtuosi on their respective instruments, and can recreate their brilliant works, in front of Sold-our venues all around the world), who is better? Why are you not willing to put your name, on your poorly conceived, narrow-minded remarks?
Why not ask Rolling Stone, VH-1, Ranker or any of dozens of the other creators of top-100 lists of greatest rock bands? As far as I can tell, Rush didn’t crack the top 20 of any of them. So, the easy answer to your question would be any of those 25-30 bands ranked ahead of them in any reasonable list, and probably many, many more. After all, Rush’s fame is predicated mostly on its frothing devotees who, though small in number, still routinely post bizarre rants like yours.
Oh, and I think this answers your question as to why someone would not want to post his name and address when making comments to Rushsters. You’re an unpredictable lot, more like religious zealots than reasonable musical critics. Unless you were plotting some sort of vengeance against those who profane the name of your godly triumvirate, why would it matter to you what a stranger’s name is?
I am curious, though… Are you Canadian? This cult of Rush seems to be more a national pride issue for a little nation largely deprived of musical talent. Maybe you should latch onto Heart, or even Anne Murray if this is a point of pride thing.
Nice diatribe. You aren’t as smart as you think you are.
Thumbs up, Hater. That was beautifully put…with the evil grace of a Dr. Hannibal Lector from behind his glass enclosure…picking apart the psychology of his visitors with surgical precision. It’s a necessary voice, something like a court jester, for those who might be taking themselves too seriously.
Sold out three nights in Seattle. That’s rock and roll baby
I think Rush is just one of those bands without a lot of middle ground. Generally people either love them or could care less. While I do agree that they are outstanding musicians, I’m in the group of people that could care less. I just never connected with their music.
Some get it, some don’t
Thank you for your intelligent thoughts. I’d probably stick with your day job and forget about a life as a music critic. Your statement = 1+1is 5. Couldn’t be further from being correct.
Wow…these three musicians are (were) tight and amazing. Consider their changing time signatures, their poetic lyrics and their Julliard-like command of their instruments and you are hard-pressed to find their equals. If I were locked into your small universe I would desperately try to escape…by listening to more Rush!
And the name of YOUR band is what? You may not like their music but you have no right to pass judgement. Look at their fan base. They would argue that statement
I don’t give a f–k about your opinion.
And yet …here you are expressing an opinion. Confused often?
Overrated how? They were not loved by critics — that’s for sure. They certainly did not generate wide but superficial appreciation by cranking out a series of bubblegum pop hits. Who exactly is overrating them?
One can be quite patriotic, while not trusting government. There are plenty of libertarian minded folk who love the ideals of America, but lacking any trust in modern government.
Majority Report does a lot of libertarian discussion. Miles ahead of the competition. Check it out.
Mr Smith, go to Washington. ASAP.
Patriotic? Jan 6 insurrection. Instigated by President? Tom Sawyers, we need you all!!!
Ah yes, an “insurrection” full of grandmothers and not a single weapon in sight. That’s definitely how “insurrections” happen. Give it a rest.
I don’t remember seeing that many grandmothers. Mostly just a bunch of pasty-faced, chubby guys in ball caps. There were some weapons, too. What do think would have happened had they reached Vice President Mike Pence? Would your “grandmothers” have given him some freshly-baked cookies? 😉
Don’t waste your time with Trumper trash like this … He probably doesn’t believe the Holocaust happened, either
What happened on Jan 6 now matter how bad it was nor how many people were involved was bad.
I’m a registered Republican, I do not endorse storming the capital, no matter who did it or how many people were involved, we shouldn’t apologize or minimize it.
We also should not use events like Jan 6 as a pretext for similar actions on both sides. Escalating conflicts is not good.
Just a few questions? Who here would say that Jan 6th was the worst moment in our nation’s political operation? Worse than the assassination of Lincoln, Garfield or JFK? how about the casualties caused by the Civil War? for example when senators were attacking each other on the floors of congress i.e. when a congressional fisticuffs broke out between the house of representatives (numbering up to 30 participants), not to mention congressional dueling to the death? during the mid 19th century; leading into that war. I can continue! lets think about the attempted bombing of the capitol? when Erich Muenter a Harvard Professor, planted three sticks of dynamite in the capitol near the senate reception room? still more, because we can look also at the four Puerto Rican Americans who shot up the house of representatives in 1954, injuring five congressmen. The actual bombing of the capitol in 1971 by the Weather Underground, and the bombing by the Armed Resistance Unit in 1983, that ripped through the senate wing of the capitol. Just so there is some context, I’m wondering who still thinks Jan 6th was an unprecedented event? incomparable to anything that has happen in this countries history?
So is this another self-righteous, censoring, ministry of truth, waiting for their quillotine just desserts?
Neil Peart is the best drummer amd lyricist of all time.
Maybe in Canada, or maybe more specifically in Toronto, or maybe even more specifically in whatever neighborhood of Toronto spawned him… but probably not. Not only have I worked with better drummers, but I grew up with several better drummers. He may have been the gaudiest of his day, though.
This is why I don’t comment anymore? and real soon it will be the same for everyone else. Leaving you plainly aware of your impotence in trying to force us to stay beholden to the “Social Contract”. As CSN said so eloquently, “we are leaving! you don’t need us” or rather we don’t need you!
Why can’t I comment? the comment section is not closed because someone commented on the 8th of May…
Your comments have been published. Thanks.
Good Lord, the hyperbole spewed about this mediocre band! They were neither instrumental virtuosos, as compared against the true virtuous of their musical era, nor were they particularly compelling songwriters, hence the dearth of enduring classic hits. The lyrics to this overblown anthem are more nonsensical word salad than high poetry. If Samuel Clemens were alive today, he would be justified in suing them.
It seems to me that the fans of these guys represent a very narrow demographic of “art rock” newbies of the late ’70s who got turned onto the genre just as it was dying or, more appropriately, just as acts like this one were murdering it. Want art rock? Find some of the real virtuous – ELP, Yes, King Crimson, etc… Better yet, go buy a Muse album and listen to how it’s done these days.
Rush is one of the best bands of all time
Why all the hate? I am not a Rush fan, but this is a good song. How do you compare art? As far as I’m aware, art cannot be measured in metric or imperial. The question is.. does it speak to you? Clearly, this song speaks to some, myself included. And 40 years later, this song has (in my opinion) stood the test of time. On a side note, Geddy is a great bass player. Sit down with your bass and play along with the guy.. you will surely then give him some respect. But there are always going be haters, music snobs and party-poopers that can never be pleased.
Enjoyed this comment. Thank you.
You know, everybody is entitled to their opinions. There is no “wrong” opinion, just whatever one relays what you feel about something. Nobody should take offense over someone hating a band (Rush, in this instance) or loving a band. One thing is certain, Rush definitely seems to bring out the extremes of both ends of the spectrum. I myself am a huge fan. They are one of my favorite bands ever. They speak to my musical comprehension through their complex time signature structures and extreme virtuosity as musicians, as well as speak to me philosophically, form the most part. But if someone hates them, I don’t feel offended and try to argue with them about it. They’re entitled to their opinion every bit as much as I am entitled to mine. It would be a boring world if everybody all liked the same things and believed the same things. What does puzzle me is why someone who does not like a certain artist would go the trouble to seek out web sites or internet postings about that group so that they could bash them. If they hate Rush so much, then why are they on a page discussing the band?
RUSH is one of the best bands EVER , Now listen up jack wagons, Neil Peart taught me to shred the kit , started at 9 with Tom Sawyer by the end of that year I could play the whole album 😬 except YYZ drum solo , but 2 years later massive practice and a few sticks thrown out the window 98% perfection way ahead of there time , catch up you
Talentless inbread slugs evolve………
A RUSH revival is on the way
Tom Sawyer is the heart of an introverted creator. Loners or introverts (people who enjoy being alone) are often misunderstood so their value and worth are often undervalued by society because they are not interested in contributing outside of their own, Neil Pert probably had many days and nights alone perfecting the drums and its how he achieved being one of the best ever to play. He would not hang out with fans, do meet and greets, and generally was against the celebrity of all of it. If you study Rush lyrics you will see its a lot of about loner dudes being misunderstood
I used to be one of those people who could take them or leave them. Over the years, I’ve come to love them. Still not as good as the mighty Zep though!