"Black Peter" is a song by the American rock band Grateful Dead. It was written by Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter, two of the band's primary songwriters. The song was first released on the band's 1970 album "Workingman's Dead" and has become a fan favorite. The song tells the story of a dying man, referred to as Black Peter. The narrator, who may also be near death, reflects on his friends visiting him the previous night while he lay in bed. The weather is described as fine, but the wind comes blowing through the door, symbolizing the unpredictability of life and death. The chorus suggests that all the narrator wants is a little peace to die and some loved ones by his side. The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of mortality. The line "Fever roll up to a hundred and five" and the mention of lying in pain indicate the physical struggle the narrator and Black Peter face. The song then shifts to a reflection on the cyclical nature of life, with references to the sun rising and setting. The narrator acknowledges that life continues regardless of individual suffering or death. The line "Shine through my window and my friends, they come around" suggests a glimmer of hope and support from loved ones during difficult times. The final verse introduces another character, Peter, who is also in pain. This serves to emphasize the shared experience of suffering and the importance of empathy. The listener is called to action with the repeated lines "Run and see, run and see." Overall, "Black Peter" explores themes of mortality, the fleeting nature of life, and the significance of human connection in times of sorrow. The song's melancholic tone and reflective lyrics resonate with listeners, prompting introspection and empathy.
