Meaning of "Membership" by The Tragically Hip

"Membership" by The Tragically Hip delves into the concept of the river as a metaphor for life and the passage of time. The river symbolizes the steady and powerful force that guides individuals throughout their lives, drawing them along its path with a sense of inevitability. The lyrics speak to the idea of being carried away by the flow of life, unable to resist its pull or change its course. The mention of ice huts hitting the bottom and the inability of even the most skilled individuals to save them represent the futility of fighting against nature and the passage of time. The reference to springtime and butterscotch symbolize the cycles of nature, with the river overflowing its banks signifying the unstoppable force of life and renewal. Overall, the song paints a picture of humans being mere participants in the grand scheme of existence, carried along by the current of life with both frustration and entertainment.