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Introduction
“Tortoise and the Hare” is one of those hidden gems from The Moody Blues’ 1970 album, A Question of Balance. While it may not have the mainstream recognition of some of their other hits, this song is a fascinating exploration of life’s pacing and the ever-present tension between haste and patience.
Listening to “Tortoise and the Hare,” you’re immediately struck by its energetic, almost urgent tempo—quite fitting given the story it’s referencing. The song draws inspiration from Aesop’s famous fable, but it’s not just a retelling; it’s a metaphorical commentary on the human condition. Through its lyrics and driving rhythm, it captures that universal struggle of wanting to rush ahead in life versus taking a more measured, steady approach.
The Moody Blues were masters at weaving deep philosophical concepts into their music, and “Tortoise and the Hare” is no exception. Justin Hayward’s vocals, paired with the band’s signature blend of rock and orchestral elements, make this song feel both timeless and immediate. It’s like the band is gently nudging you to think about your own pace in life—are you the hare, speeding ahead without considering the journey, or the tortoise, moving steadily but surely?
One of the most compelling aspects of this song is how it manages to maintain a sense of urgency while also urging patience. The instrumentation—especially the percussive elements—adds a layer of tension, making you feel like you’re caught in a race, but one where the outcome isn’t about speed but wisdom. This duality is something The Moody Blues did so well, blending lyrical introspection with musical dynamism.
For many fans, “Tortoise and the Hare” resonates on a deeply personal level. It’s a reminder that life’s journey isn’t just about reaching the finish line but understanding and appreciating the path you take to get there. It’s a song that, much like the fable it references, teaches a lesson—one that becomes more poignant with each listen.
Video
Lyrics
You know he’s moving fast,
Be he’s still going slow,
He’s ahead in the race,
And there is not far to go,
And your load is so heavy
And your legs want to rest.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
You think he’s way up in front
But he’s so far behind.
He’s asleep in the grass,
And he’s run out of time.
While your load was so heavy
You never wanted to stop.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
Your friend is heavy
But he was ready
And never stopped for a while
And while you were sleeping
He went on keeping the final line in his mind.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
Your friend is heavy
But he was ready
And never stopped for a while
And while you were sleeping
He went on keeping the final line in his mind.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.
It’s all right, it’s all right, it’s all right.