"Peter Pan" by James McMurtry tells the story of a person living in a state of arrested development. The lyrics describe a messy living space, careless behavior, and a reluctance to grow up. Despite warnings from others, the narrator continues to make mistakes and refuses to take responsibility for their actions. The chorus acknowledges the narrator's inability to mature, with the line "I can't grow up 'cause I'm too old now." The title of the song, "Peter Pan," references the classic story of the boy who refuses to grow up. The second verse introduces a metaphorical "boogie man" who represents the consequences of the narrator's actions. Despite trying to deny his presence, the boogie man catches up with the narrator and forces them to face the consequences. The final verse offers a sense of escapism, with the narrator suggesting they go chase tornadoes. This can be interpreted as a desire to escape reality and continue living in a world of fantasy. Overall, "Peter Pan" is a commentary on the struggle to grow up and accept responsibility for one's actions. The narrator's refusal to do so is a source of frustration for those around them, ultimately leading to a sense of loneliness and isolation.
