Ahead By A Century

The Tragically Hip's song 'Ahead By A Century' is a poetic exploration of life's fleeting moments and the importance of living in the present. The opening lines, 'First thing we'd climb a tree / And maybe then we'd talk / Or sit silently / And listen to our thoughts,' evoke a sense of childhood innocence and simplicity. This imagery sets the stage for a reflection on how we often get caught up in the illusions of what the future might hold, casting a 'golden light' on our dreams and aspirations. The line 'No dress rehearsal / This is our life' serves as a poignant reminder that life is happening now, and there are no second chances to live it fully.

The recurring motif of the hornet sting symbolizes sudden, unexpected events that jolt us out of our daydreams and force us to confront reality. The feverish and serious dreams filled with 'revenge and doubt' suggest the internal struggles and conflicts that arise when we face these harsh truths. The phrase 'Tonight we smoke them out' implies a determination to confront and overcome these challenges, emphasizing the need to deal with our issues head-on rather than letting them fester.

The chorus, 'You are ahead by a century,' can be interpreted as a tribute to someone who possesses wisdom and insight far beyond their years. This person understands the value of living in the moment and not getting bogged down by the past or future. The song concludes with a note of melancholy, 'And disappointing you's getting me down,' hinting at the emotional toll of failing to meet the expectations of someone who sees the world so clearly. Overall, 'Ahead By A Century' is a beautiful meditation on the importance of presence, the inevitability of life's challenges, and the wisdom that comes from truly living in the moment.