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"Life in the Fast Lane"

Posted by Warthog on January 14, 2004

In Reply to: "Life in the Fast Lane" posted by ESC on January 13, 2004

: : I heard Tony Kornheiser on ESPN Radio today offering that the Eagles may have invented the phrase "Life in The Fast Lane" from their song of the same name. Does anyone offer any alternative origin of that phrase?

: Here's what one reference says:

: fast lane -- 1. a style of living characterized by recklessness or dissipation -- usually constructed with "life in the." 1976 G. Frey et al. "life in the Fast Lane" (rock song)...
: 2. fast track -- 1982 "Maclean's" October 20. From Random House Historical Dictionary of American Slang, Volume 1, A-G by J.E. Lighter, Random House, New York, 1994.

"the fast lane" is an expression used in the UK since the building of 'dual carriageway' and 'motorway' roads. the right hand lane has traditionally been called the fast lane, even though more properly is is supposed to be regarded as the 'over-taking' lane.

things and life 'in the fast lane' were common expressions during my childhood - pre Eagles and I recall the Eagles song title not being considered a novelty when it cam out.
I do not have any documentation for that POV.

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