>There is unrest in the forest,
>There is trouble with the trees,
>For the maples want more sunlight
>And the oaks ignore their pleas.

>The trouble with the maples,
>(And they're quite convinced they're right)
>They say the oaks are just too lofty
>And they grab up all the light.
>But the oaks can't help their feelings
>If they like the way they're made.
>And they wonder why the maples
>Can't be happy in their shade?

>There is trouble in the Forest
>And the creatures all have fled
>As the Maples scream 'Oppression!'
>And the Oaks, just shake their heads

>So the maples formed a union
>And demanded equal rights.
>'These oaks are just too greedy;
>We will make them give us light.'
>Now there's no more oak oppression,
>For they passed a noble law,
>And the trees are all kept equal
>By hatchet,
>Ax,
>And saw.
Rush - The Trees
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnC88xBPkkc

Indeed, we are kept down with hatchet, ax and saw. This parable clearly underscores how the small people continue to force those graced with power and influence to bend to the will of those who are not worthy, resorting to violence rather than reason to have their way. The music of Rush asks: Which are you? A noble oak, rising towards the sun, or a weak maple, whining about the unfairness of it all rather than bettering yourself through improved photosynthesis and nutrient gathering? The implied inferiority of the maple, national tree of Canada, is clearly intentional and represents Peart's dissatisfaction his socialist homeland.