I've noticed more and more recently how classic rock lyrics reference 'The Wheel' as a metaphor for life. It connotes a sense of helplessness or lack of control, e.g., getting 'caught up in the wheel', or the 'wheel keeps spinning' despite our efforts to the contrary. It is often associated with 'The Man' or 'Big Brother', and it is implied that 'The Wheel' can be avoided if one chooses to lead a counterculture lifestyle instead of a traditional 9-5. Similarities can be drawn to use of 'The Game' in hip hop culture.
Here is a growing list of songs that reference 'The Wheel'.
