“Long Time Running” by The Tragically Hip is a song steeped in emotion and reflection. It isn’t just a melody; it’s a journey through the complexities of relationships, mistakes, and the passage of time. The songwriter, deeply introspective, navigates the waters of personal growth and the impact of decisions made. While it’s not explicitly about a specific person, the song feels deeply personal, reflecting universal feelings of regret, longing, and the eventual acceptance that comes with time.
The song’s essence lies in its chorus: “It’s been a long time running / It’s been a long time coming / It’s well worth the wait.” This mantra-like repetition speaks volumes about enduring through life’s challenges and coming out wiser on the other side.
Ever wonder what makes a song stick in your mind? “Long Time Running” by The Tragically Hip is one of those tracks. It’s more than just a song; it’s a narrative, a slice of life that resonates on a deeper level. Let’s dive into the lyrics and uncover the story woven into the music.
“Long Time Running” Lyrics Meaning
“Long Time Running” opens with a question, “Does your mother tell you things / Long, long when I’m gone?” Immediately, we’re thrust into a realm of introspection and memory. The song speaks to the lingering impact of one’s actions and words, long after they’ve left. It’s as if the songwriter is pondering their lasting influence on others.
As the song progresses, phrases like “Drive in’s rained out” and “Weatherman wet fingers the sky” vividly depict plans gone awry and unexpected turns in life. These metaphors reflect the unpredictability of life and relationships, highlighting that sometimes things don’t go as planned, yet there’s beauty in that unpredictability.
The chorus, “It’s been a long time running / It’s been a long time coming,” resonates as an anthem of resilience and patience. It suggests a journey of self-discovery, of making mistakes, and eventually finding a place of acceptance and understanding. This repetition underscores the song’s central theme: the journey and growth that come with time.
Further in, the line “You’ve got a boatload of nerve” shifts the tone to confrontation. It’s about facing those who might oppose or challenge us, acknowledging conflict and standing strong. This part of the song delves into the complexity of human relationships and the courage it takes to stand up for oneself.
The Story Behind “Long Time Running”
The Tragically Hip, known for their introspective and often cryptic lyrics, crafted this song during a time of reflection and maturity. The song’s nature suggests it was written during a period of significant change or realization. Perhaps it came from a personal experience of the songwriter, where they faced a pivotal moment, a crossroads that prompted a deep dive into their past actions and future path. This introspective journey gives the song its relatable and timeless quality.
The lyric “It’s been a long time running / It’s been a long time coming” could be interpreted as a metaphor for the band’s own journey in the music industry, facing ups and downs, evolving, and coming to a point of understanding and acceptance of their artistic path. It speaks to the patience and perseverance required in any creative endeavor and the eventual reward of staying true to one’s art.
Moreover, the song reflects a universal human experience. It’s about growing older, wiser, and coming to terms with one’s life choices. The songwriter’s state of mind seems to be one of acceptance and realization that every experience, whether perceived as good or bad, shapes who we become.
In essence, “Long Time Running” is not just a song but a reflection of life itself, a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever looked back on their journey and pondered the “what ifs,” the mistakes, and the triumphs that define us.