The song "Bayou Tortous" by James McMurtry is a tale of a night out in Turtle Bayou, a remote area in Louisiana. The narrator suggests going to this place with the hope of getting lucky, but also acknowledges the possibility of getting into trouble. The song's chorus urges the listener to "turn around" and leave Turtle Bayou. However, the narrator seems to enjoy the thrill of being in a dangerous and unpredictable place. Throughout the song, the narrator reflects on his relationship with his wife and the temptations he faces. He admits to watching Court TV with his wife and portrays their relationship as mundane and at risk of losing its spark. The lyrics also mention the narrator's attraction to Oklahoma Jane, a woman who comes from the North to escape the cold. He contemplates having a dance with her, but ultimately returns home to his wife. Overall, "Bayou Tortous" is a story of a man's search for excitement and temptation in a remote and dangerous place. The song underscores the risks of giving in to these desires and the importance of staying loyal to the ones we love.
