This brief, seemingly simple quote from J. J. Connolly's Layer Cake cleverly juxtaposes the refined philosophy of Zen with something much more direct and possibly less nuanced, hinting at a contrast between calm subtlety and a more raw or overt approach. Zen, as a school of Mahayana Buddhism, emphasises meditation, insight, and a deep understanding of one's nature and the cosmos through subtlety, stillness, and minimalism. The quote's comparison implies an awareness of the importance of subtlety but suggests that the subject or situation being referred to lacks that gentle finesse.

The phrase 'Only not as subtle' invites reflection on how certain situations, thoughts, or behaviors attempt to achieve a state of balance or understanding but fall short of the elegance and quiet clarity associated with Zen. It could comment on human experiences where simplicity is attempted but fails to reach pure subtlety due to flaws, external pressures, or inherent difficulty. It might also hint at a pared-down or pragmatic approach, where ideas or actions are simplified to the point of losing some sophistication or grace.

Furthermore, the quote encourages readers to think critically about what it means for something to be 'subtle'—how subtlety is valued not just because it is quiet or gentle but because it carries depth and resonance beyond the obvious. This line may speak to the tension between profound philosophies and the often messy, unrefined reality of everyday life. In literature or social context, it might underscore a character or moment that aspires to Zen-like calm but is tangled in the lack of subtlety, reflecting human imperfection and the struggle for enlightenment in an imperfect world.