How did the saying "up the creek without a paddle" come to define someone in a difficult situation?

Question

I would have thought down the creek without a paddle makes more sense because if you're up the creek you could just float down.

Answer 1

No, u will go downstream whether you do anything or not, but to go upstream, you need to put some extra effort and in a boat, without a paddle, you are in very difficult situation to go up the creek. You need to use your hands and that is not very easy or efficient.

That sentence actually means you need to go up the creek without a paddle.

Answer 2

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RE:
How did the saying "up the creek without a paddle" come to define someone in a difficult situation?
I would have thought down the creek without a paddle makes more sense because if you're up the creek you could just float down.

Answer 3

It s from the old naval hospital in Plymouth. They used to bring casualties up stonehouse creek to the original naval hospital site, which is now Devonport high school for boys.

Answer 4

If you're up the creek you're more likely to encounter rapids, which could kill you if you don't have a paddle to control your boat!

Answer 5

You are struggling to fight the current without any means to do so.

The phrase means you are screwed.