Meaning of "The Fad" by Chevelle

"The Fad" by Chevelle delves into the idea of societal trends and how they shape individuals' thoughts and actions. The song opens with the idea that men soon "taste their own normalcy," suggesting that people become accustomed to a certain way of thinking and behaving. However, this normalcy is disrupted when a new trend or fad emerges. These irrational thoughts quickly take hold and shape people's tastes, without much consideration for their authenticity or true beliefs.

The song criticizes this tendency to blindly follow trends and labels it as mere change or a phase. The repetition of "Let's call it change, let's call it change" implies that people are quick to adopt the latest trend without truly understanding its implications or evaluating whether it aligns with their own values. The lyrics mock the superficiality of this behavior, highlighting that it becomes "hip to care, hip to hate it" once it permeates society.

The song also touches on the idea of violence and how it is woven into these trends. It encourages individuals to laugh at the violence, suggesting a sense of detachment or apathy towards important issues. By mocking the seriousness of violence, the lyrics reveal the shallow nature of these trends and the lack of genuine concern or understanding behind them.

The bridge of the song exposes the character of someone who loves to live beyond his means and seeks validation through material possessions, referencing the "Gucci clan" and their "fat face." This critique further emphasizes the empty nature of trends and the superficiality associated with them.

Ultimately, "The Fad" serves as a commentary on the fickle nature of trends and the dangers of blindly following them. It shines a light on the lack of authenticity and critical thinking in society, urging individuals to reflect on their own beliefs and motivations rather than simply going along with the crowd.