Meaning of "Cars and Girls" by Prefab Sprout

The lyrics of "Cars and Girls" delve into the complexities of growing up and facing the harsh truths of reality. The song opens with a depiction of missed opportunities and dreams unfulfilled, symbolized by roads bypassing the speaker and innocence being lost at the hands of life. The repeated refrain of "look at us now, quit driving" reflects a desire to stop the relentless march of time and take stock of where life has led. The mention of cars and girls as sources of hurt serves as a metaphor for deeper pain and disappointment, hinting at the struggle to find meaning and fulfillment in a world that often falls short of childhood ideals. The reference to a "hot rod" and the futile pursuit of being a "new god" emphasizes the emptiness of material possessions and ego-driven pursuits, highlighting the ultimate futility of seeking validation and purpose in external sources. Finally, the song ends with a plea to hold on to dreams and the innocence of youth, acknowledging that while life may not always be what we hoped for, there is still beauty in the act of dreaming.