The meaning of Ahead By A Century by The Tragically Hip

The Tragically Hip's song "Ahead By A Century" is a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of mortality. The lyrics, penned by lead vocalist Gordon Downie, are a meditation on the passage of time and the way in which our experiences and memories can become distorted with age.

The song's title itself is a reference to the way in which history can be rewritten or forgotten over time, leaving those who come later to wonder at the world that once was. This theme is echoed throughout the song, as Downie sings about the ways in which our perceptions of the past can change, and how we are all left "ahead by a century" - struggling to make sense of the world around us.

Musically, "Ahead By A Century" features a haunting melody that is characteristic of The Tragically Hip's signature sound. The song's instrumentation is marked by the use of sweeping guitar arpeggios and a driving rhythm section, which creates a sense of urgency and momentum that underscores the themes of mortality and memory.

Throughout the song, Downie's lyrics are infused with a sense of longing and nostalgia, as he reflects on the people and places that have shaped his life. The chorus, in particular, is a powerful expression of this sentiment, as Downie sings about the way in which memories can be both a source of comfort and a reminder of what has been lost.

Overall, "Ahead By A Century" is a masterful exploration of the human experience - a poignant and thought-provoking reflection on the nature of time and memory that is sure to resonate with listeners.