Meaning of "Too Long In The Wasteland" by James McMurtry

The lyrics of "Too Long In The Wasteland" paint a picture of someone who is emotionally and perhaps physically isolated, feeling disconnected from society and their past. The imagery of bullet holes, keyholes, and a ghostly moon evoke a sense of danger and mystery, hinting at a past full of unresolved issues and traumas. The protagonist's interactions with a woman from the past and with villagers who see them as an outsider further emphasize their feeling of being out of place. The mention of whiskey as a coping mechanism and the desire to escape from the wasteland suggest a longing for freedom and a better life, yet the final decision to stay hints at a resignation to their current situation. Overall, the lyrics explore themes of isolation, nostalgia, regret, and the struggle to break free from the past to find a new path forward.