Thats No Fun

Steve Lacy's song "That's No Fun" delves into the theme of personal growth and the inevitable changes that come with it. The lyrics open with a conversation where someone accuses Steve of changing, to which he responds with a mix of frustration and clarity. This sets the stage for the song's central message: change is a natural and necessary part of life. Steve questions why anyone would want to stay the same, labeling it as 'no fun' and 'strange.' This sentiment is a powerful reflection on the importance of evolving and not being stagnant.

The song further explores the idea of outgrowing old friends and habits. Steve mentions how his old friends have 'dissolved' because they stayed on the 'same old shit,' while he has moved on to find his own path. This highlights a common experience many people face as they grow older and their interests and priorities shift. The metaphor of dissolving friends paints a vivid picture of relationships that fade away when one person evolves and the other does not. Steve's journey from hanging out and smoking to finding his 'high' in other ways signifies a deeper, more meaningful transformation.

Another interesting aspect of the song is the criticism Steve faces for 'talking white,' a phrase loaded with cultural implications. This line touches on the complexities of identity and how people can be judged for changing their mannerisms or speech patterns. Steve's response to this criticism is one of bewilderment and dismissal, reinforcing his stance that change is not only inevitable but also essential for personal growth. The nostalgic references to past activities like swimming and jerkin' serve to contrast the old Steve with the new, emphasizing the distance he has traveled on his journey of self-discovery.