In "A Long Way Down" by Nick Hornby, the concept of "music rage" is introduced as a more morally justified form of anger compared to road rage. While road rage often comes with an awareness of one's rude behavior, music rage is portrayed as a fervent response where the individual feels empowered by a higher purpose. This intense emotion leads them to believe they are fulfilling a divine mission against those who misinterpret or misuse music.

This perspective highlights a unique blend of passion and aggression that music can evoke in people. Instead of merely expressing frustration, music rage transforms that feeling into a righteous cause, suggesting that one’s disdain for certain musical interpretations can feel close to a moral obligation. Thus, Hornby effectively captures the depth of emotional responses tied to music, elevating them beyond mere annoyance to a crusade against perceived injustices in musical taste.