Meaning of "If New Orleans Is Beat" by The Tragically Hip

The lyrics of "If New Orleans Is Beat" by The Tragically Hip touch on themes of struggle, decay, and resilience in the face of hardship. The reference to the fading smile and rationing of happiness suggests a sense of loss and diminishing hope. The portrayal of the Mississippi River as taking and changing without end reflects the relentless nature of life's challenges. The line "No one will give you a thing these days, they'd rather kill it or throw it away" highlights a feeling of abandonment and neglect, where society seems more willing to discard or destroy than to help. The repeated questioning of where being "beat" leaves the narrator and their partner suggests a looming sense of uncertainty and a need to navigate through difficult circumstances together. Despite the darkness and decay surrounding New Orleans, there is a sense of solidarity and companionship in facing these challenges together.