I'm not 17 anymore. I still have some of the same sort of anger, but I have a sense of humor about it... a sense of being constructive with that anger.

In this quote, Dave Pirner reflects on the changes that come with age, particularly in relation to how he channels his anger. By stating, "I'm not 17 anymore," Pirner acknowledges that with time comes growth and maturity. While he still experiences the same type of anger he might have had in his youth, he now has a more constructive way of handling it, indicating a shift from impulsive reactions to a more thoughtful approach.

Pirner also highlights how his sense of humor plays a role in managing his emotions. Rather than letting his anger control him, he uses humor as a tool to deal with it, showing that he has learned to find a lighthearted way to address difficult feelings. This suggests that humor provides him with a healthy outlet, allowing him to not take his anger too seriously while still acknowledging it.

The phrase "a sense of being constructive with that anger" points to Pirner's ability to transform negative emotions into something productive. This reflects a more mature and positive approach to dealing with frustration or resentment, where the focus is on finding solutions or creative outlets rather than just reacting emotionally. It shows a level of personal growth and self-awareness.

Ultimately, Pirner’s quote illustrates the evolution of how he deals with his anger as he grows older. The combination of humor and constructive expression allows him to maintain control over his emotions and use them in a more productive way, reflecting the balance between youthful intensity and mature self-regulation.