Meaning: This quote by Lester Bangs touches on the idea of myths and their relationship to reality. Lester Bangs was a prominent music journalist and critic known for his candid and often controversial opinions. In this quote, he is expressing skepticism about the notion that certain events or phenomena are mere myths. He draws a parallel between the idea he is questioning and the recession that was affecting the entire country at the time. By doing so, he suggests that dismissing something as a myth can be a way of downplaying its significance, despite evidence that suggests otherwise.

The quote reflects Bangs' tendency to challenge conventional wisdom and to question the narratives that are often presented as absolute truths. In this case, he seems to be addressing a specific issue or event that was being dismissed as a myth by some, but which he believes is a real and pressing concern. Bangs' use of the word "anymore" implies that he is pushing back against a prevailing belief or narrative, suggesting that his perspective is contrary to popular opinion.

Bangs' reference to the recession adds a layer of complexity to his statement. The recession was a tangible and widely acknowledged economic downturn that affected the entire nation, leading to financial hardship for many. By aligning the perceived myth he is discussing with the recession, Bangs is emphasizing the real-world impact and consequences of phenomena that are sometimes dismissed as myths. He is highlighting the danger of ignoring or downplaying serious issues by labeling them as myths, especially when they have tangible effects on people's lives.

It's also worth noting the tone of concern and urgency in Bangs' words. He expresses a sense of foreboding about the situation, stating that it "seems like it's going to get worse and worse." This sense of impending trouble adds weight to his argument, as he is not simply questioning the dismissal of the issue as a myth but also warning about its potential to worsen if not taken seriously.

Overall, this quote captures Bangs' willingness to challenge prevailing narratives and his commitment to recognizing and addressing real-world problems. His use of the recession as a parallel example serves to underscore the gravity of the issue he is discussing and to caution against complacency or denial. Bangs' thought-provoking approach to critiquing societal attitudes and beliefs is a hallmark of his writing, and this quote is a prime example of his incisive and unapologetic style.

In conclusion, Lester Bangs' quote challenges the notion of certain events or phenomena being dismissed as myths. He draws a parallel to the recession to emphasize the tangible impact of such phenomena and to caution against disregarding them. His skepticism and sense of urgency underscore his commitment to addressing real-world problems and questioning prevailing narratives.