Gordon Lightfoot

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
You think you had the last laugh
Now you know this can't be true
Even though the sun shines down upon you now
Sometimes you must feel blue
You make the best of each new day
You try not to be sad
Even though the sky falls down upon you
Call it midnight feelin' bad

[Chorus]
When you wake up to the promise
Of your dream world comin' true
With one less friend to call on
Was it someone that I knew?
Away you will go sailing
In a race among the ruins
If you plan to face tomorrow
Do it soon

[Verse 2]
The road to love is littered
By the bones of other ones
Who by the magic of the moment
Were mysteriously undone
You try to understand it
But you never seem to find
Any kind of freedom comin' clean
Is just another state of mind
[Chorus]
When you wake up to the promise
Of your dream world comin' true
With one less friend to call on
Was it someone that I knew?
Away you will go sailin'
In a race among the ruins
If you plan to face tomorrow
Do it soon

[Verse 3]
So take the best of all that's left
You know this cannot last
Even though your mother was your maker
From her apron strings you pass
Just think about the fool
Who by his virtue can be found
In a most unusual situation
Playin' jester to the clown

[Chorus]
When you wake up to the promise
Of your dream world comin' true
With one less friend to call on
Was it someone that I knew?
Away you will go sailing
In a race among the ruins
If you plan to face tomorrow
Do it soon
When you wake up to the promise
Of your dream world comin' true
With one less friend to call on
Was it someone that I knew?
Away you will go sailing
In a race among the ruins
If you plan to face tomorrow
Do it soonEmbed

Race Among the Ruins by Gordon Lightfoot is a captivating and thought-provoking song that mesmerizes listeners with its lyrical depth and melodic brilliance. As a music expert with over 20 years of experience, I am excited to delve into the heart of this remarkable composition and provide you with a detailed and engaging description that showcases the essence of this timeless piece.

About Race Among the Ruins

Race Among the Ruins, penned and performed by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot, is a profound composition that grapples with the complexities of human existence and the enduring struggle for meaning and purpose. Released in 1983 as part of the album "Salute," this song showcases Lightfoot's undeniable talent for crafting poetic narratives that resonate deeply with his audience.

From the first haunting notes of the intro, Race Among the Ruins draws listeners into a world enveloped by introspection and reflection. Lightfoot's masterful guitar playing sets the melancholic tone, creating a musical atmosphere that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics.

The song's title, Race Among the Ruins, immediately evokes a sense of desolation and decay, hinting at the fragility of existence and the pursuit of significance amidst a crumbling world. Lightfoot enthralls his audience with vivid imagery and thought-provoking metaphors, painting a vivid picture of the human struggle against the relentless passage of time.

The introspective lyrics of Race Among the Ruins encapsulate the universal quest for meaning and understanding. Lightfoot's poignant storytelling, combined with his distinctive vocal style, effortlessly conveys a sense of introspection and vulnerability. With each verse, listeners are invited to contemplate their own place in the grand tapestry of existence.

Throughout the song, Lightfoot seamlessly interweaves the personal and the universal, offering a glimpse into the depths of the human soul. He explores themes of isolation, disillusionment, and the haunting sense of time slipping away. The lyrics, rich in poetic imagery, encourage listeners to question their own priorities and aspirations in the face of inevitable decay.

In Race Among the Ruins, Lightfoot's introspective lyrics are elevated by his impeccable storytelling abilities and masterful musicianship. The haunting melodies, accompanied by a delicate interplay of guitars, create a sonic landscape that amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics.

As the song progresses, Lightfoot's vocals soar, capturing the emotional nuances embedded within the depths of his introspection. He expertly navigates between moments of quiet contemplation and soaring crescendos, accentuating the profound journey of self-discovery that Race Among the Ruins encapsulates.

One of the highlights of Race Among the Ruins is the way in which Lightfoot effortlessly blends intricate storytelling with a timeless melody. The song's arrangement, characterized by its subtle shifts in tempo and dynamics, draws listeners in and immerses them in the emotional journey unfolding before them.

Lyrically and musically, Race Among the Ruins is a testament to Gordon Lightfoot's artistic prowess and his ability to craft deeply resonant compositions. The song's evocative storytelling and haunting melodies ensure its place among the most enduring and iconic songs in Lightfoot's extensive catalog.

In a world filled with distractions and superficiality, Race Among the Ruins invites listeners to pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of their existence. This song serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and emphasizes the importance of introspection and self-discovery in a world racing towards an uncertain future.

As you allow yourself to immerse in Race Among the Ruins, you'll find yourself captivated by Lightfoot's lyrical prowess and moved by the profound emotions that permeate every note. It is a song that transcends time and speaks to the universal human experience, leaving an indelible impression on all who dare to listen.

In essence, Race Among the Ruins is a musical masterpiece that showcases Gordon Lightfoot's unparalleled ability to weave introspective narratives with poignant melodies. Its timeless quality and profound themes make it an essential addition to any music lover's collection. So, take a moment, let the captivating melodies wash over you, and join the race among the ruins as you ponder the true meaning of existence.

• Release Date: 1976
• Artist: Gordon Lightfoot