Song meaning of Peter the Wild Boy by Ratboys

The lyrics of "Peter the Wild Boy" by Ratboys tell the story of a boy named Peter who is seen as an outsider to society due to his inability to communicate or conform to societal norms. Despite his limitations, he possesses a profound connection to nature and an understanding of the world that others struggle to comprehend. 

The song reflects on the struggles faced by Peter, with lines such as "He’s a mess, he’s a man, what should we do with him?" suggesting society's confusion and dismissal of him. Yet, Peter's unique perspective and connection to nature are celebrated, symbolized by lines like "Your eyebrows are the mountains, and your dandruff is the snow." 

The lyrics also highlight the contrast between Peter and the materialistic world, as shown when the song references the birth of the United States dollar and the narrator's experience of feeling the tree-bark skin when paying for lunch. This juxtaposition suggests that while society strives for material wealth and conformity, Peter finds solace in simplicity and his connection to the natural world.

Overall, the lyrics convey a message about the beauty of individuality, the limitations of societal norms, and the importance of embracing unique perspectives. It encourages listeners to appreciate and learn from those who may not fit into traditional molds, emphasizing the value of empathy and understanding.