Lyrics of
Carry On Wayward Son

Carry On Wayward Son was written by Kerry Livgren and released by the band Kansas on their 1976 album, Leftoverture. It became one of the bands most recognized songs. The lyrics reflect themes of disillusionment, searching for meaning, and hope for redemption. It was inspired by a series of spiritual experiences of Livgren.

Once I rose above the noise and confusion
Just to get a glimpse beyond this illusion
I was soaring ever higher
But I flew too high
Though my eyes could see I still was a blind man
Though my mind could think I still was a mad man
I hear the voices when I'm dreaming
I can hear them say

Carry on my wayward son
There'll be peace when you are done
Lay your weary head to rest
N.C.

Masquerading as a man with a reason
My charade is the event of the season
And if I claim to be a wise man
It surely means that I don't know
On a stormy sea of moving emotion
Tossed about, I'm like a ship on the ocean
I set a course for winds of fortune
But I hear the voices say

Carry on my wayward son
There'll be peace when you are done
Lay your weary head to rest
N.C.

Carry on
You will always remember
Carry on
Nothing equals the splendor
Now your life's no longer empty
Surely Heaven waits for you

Carry on my wayward son
There'll be peace when you are done
Lay your weary head to rest
Don't you cry {vocal echo: Don't you cry} no more