Meaning of "The Rules" by The Tragically Hip

The lyrics of "The Rules" by The Tragically Hip seem to delve into the idea of societal rules and norms that govern our daily lives. The chaotic scene described in the song could represent the complexities and frustrations of navigating life within these rules. The mention of a salesman offering a vacuum that can seemingly solve all problems, including stopping traffic for small thoughts to cross safely, could be a metaphor for the false promises and quick fixes offered by society to address issues. It could also reflect on the idea of following regulations blindly without questioning their true impact or validity. Overall, the song may be exploring the idea of conformity, absurdity of rules, and the need for critical thinking in a world that often operates on autopilot.