The song "Opiated" by The Tragically Hip tells the story of a man who becomes addicted to drugs and finds himself out of breath and overwhelmed. He reflects on the choices he made, questioning if maybe someone could have waited for him to catch up and make better decisions.

Meaning of "Opiated" by The Tragically Hip

"Opiated" explores the themes of addiction and the consequences of impulsive choices. The lyrics provide a glimpse into the life of someone struggling with substance abuse, using vivid imagery to convey their experiences. The opening verse describes the protagonist purchasing gasoline and a suit, suggesting a lack of stability and a desire to please others. The mention of Saint Peter suggests a reference to the afterlife, implying that the protagonist's actions may not align with traditional expectations. The repetition of the line "But now I lie here so out of breath and over opiated" emphasizes the character's exhaustion and regret. The lyrics also touch on the idea of seeking approval and becoming dependent on the opinions of others. The line "addicted to approval, addicted to the air" suggests that the protagonist craves validation and is trapped in a cycle of seeking acceptance. The repeated phrase "maybe he could have waited" hints at the protagonist's longing for someone to have shown patience and understanding, suggesting that a different outcome may have been possible if given time. Overall, "Opiated" serves as a poignant reflection on the destructive power of addiction and the longing for second chances.