Meaning of "Reba" by Phish

The lyrics of "Reba" by Phish can be interpreted as a metaphor for the creative process and the complexity of artistry. Reba, as a character, represents an artist or creator who is deeply engrossed in their work, willing to experiment and push boundaries to achieve something extraordinary. The bizarre and nonsensical activities described in the song can symbolize the unconventional methods and sacrifices involved in the pursuit of artistic excellence. Mixing random ingredients in the tub, creating a unique concoction, and selling it to the butcher may represent the artist's journey of taking inspiration from various sources, putting their heart and soul into their craft, and finally presenting their creation to the world. The repetition of "bag it, tag it, sell it to the butcher at the store" can signify the cycle of creation, presentation, and commercialization that artists often go through. Overall, the song celebrates the artistic process, the dedication required to create something meaningful, and the satisfaction of sharing one's artistry with others.