General
Along The Way was written before Into The Unknown. However, it wasn't until 1985 that it was recorded and ended up on the Back To The Known EP.
Alternative lyrics
Instead of “I refuse to abuse what is kind to the Muse“ Greg G. also sang
“I refuse to abuse what is kind to abuse” and
“I refuse to abuse what is kind to defuse”.
Instead of “And we’ll try as we cry and our brothers pass us by” he often sings
“And we’ll cry as we try …”.
Instead of “But forget, don’t regret, to find love and happiness” he sometimes sings
“But regret, don’t forget, …”.
References
Although it is often assumed that the line "Like Tommy, you are free, and you will not follow me" refers to Tom Clement, a friend of Brett who died in 1986, it is more likely a reference to the song 'I'm Free' (1969) by The Who:
Tommy:
I'm free - I'm free
And freedom tastes of reality
I'm free - I'm free
And I'm waiting for you to follow me
Reception
In the 2005 / 2006 “Song Tournament”, Along The Way was voted most favorite BR song by The Bad Religion Page forum members.