| A Better Life | |
| The Astonishing | |
| Length | 4:39 |
| Working title | |
| Release date | December 3, 2016 |
| Lyrics | John Petrucci |
| Music | Jordan Rudess, John Petrucci |
| First live performance | |
| Total live plays | |
| Recorded | |
| Other appearances | |
| Previous song | The Answer |
| Next song | Lord Nafaryus |
A Better Life is the fifth track from Dream Theater's thirteenth studio album, The Astonishing.
Analysis
This song is a further development of Arhys, where it is revealed that he is the leader of the Ravenskill militia. It is also revealed how and why he manages to fight each and every day.
Personnel
- John Petrucci - Guitar, lyrics
- James LaBrie - Vocals
- John Myung - Bass
- Jordan Rudess - Keyboards
- Mike Mangini - Drums/percussion
Lyrics
[MILITIA OFFICER:] “Attention, battalion! Two ranks, right, face! Forward, march!” [ARHYS:] As fearless leader of the Ravenskill militia The blood of warriors Flows throughout my veins My brother's gift remains my secret ammunition It is our hope, our pride A catalyst for change Still the fires of revolution burn within my eyes On this perilous road to freedom He's our one and only guide For many years, I've seen our people starve and suffer How many more will die Before we stand and fight? They ask me, “Arhys, Could things be any tougher?” The answer's no surprise “Yes, you bet your life!” Now, the fires of revolution won't burn for evermore I see liberty in our future And it's one worth fighting for We all long for a better life Like a dream that can't be denied This is the moment Now is the time Freedom if we live or if we die I shall give him a better life I swore this vow to my dying wife Sure she would not survive Peacefully She slipped away The meaning in my life Was born that day And so I found the strength to carry on with this crusade It is my fate Evangeline, You lived a life of misery and pain Evangeline I'll never let your memory die in vain Evangeline My heavy heart still bleeds I dedicate my life to set him free And I will carry on to plant the seeds I promise in the name of our new son This battle won't be over until it's won