Prime Mover

An exploration of the forces that drive people to act — the "prime mover" that compels us forward despite uncertainty. The philosophical concept (borrowed from Aristotle) is grounded in Peart's characteristically human-scale observations about motivation and agency.

Lee's bass work is particularly prominent and inventive, with some of his most complex and melodic playing of the era. Mann contributes backing vocals, adding depth to the arrangement. The song showcases the kind of sophisticated pop-rock craftsmanship that defined Rush's late-1980s sound.

Fans of Hold Your Fire often point to "Prime Mover" as evidence of just how accomplished the band's playing remained even at the height of their keyboard period — the virtuosity was still there, just channeled differently.