“The Sage” is a song by Greg Lake, released in 1973 on the album Pictures at an Exhibition by the members of Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The song stands out for its gentle, introspective mood, contrasting with the often grandiose, progressive rock arrangements typical of the band.

Musically, “The Sage” is an acoustic ballad, carried by Greg Lake’s warm vocals, acoustic guitar, and subtle orchestral elements. The song conveys a contemplative, almost mystical feeling, with lyrics centered on wisdom, reflection, and inner searching—fitting for the title “The Sage.” The minimalist instrumentation highlights the emotional core of the piece.

Although the song is not as well-known as some of ELP’s epic tracks, it is regarded by fans as a beautiful example of Lake’s ability to create intimacy and emotion in his music, beyond the typical virtuosic prog-rock explosions.