The ear disapproves but tolerates certain musical pieces; transfer them into the domain of our nose, and we will be forced to flee.
Jean CocteauRead
Fight any instinct to be humorless, for humorlessness is the worst of all absurdities.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humorlessness limits our understanding of life and makes it absurd.
In this quote, Jean Cocteau emphasizes the importance of humor in our lives, suggesting that taking life too seriously leads to a lack of understanding and appreciation for its inherent absurdities. By advocating against being humorless, he highlights that humor can be a vital lens through which we navigate and interpret our experiences, reminding us of the lightness amidst challenges.
Themes
HumorAbsurdityLifeUnderstandingJoy
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational talk about overcoming challenges, you might use this quote to emphasize the role of humor in life's difficulties.
More from Jean Cocteau
All quotes βOne must be a living man and a posthumous artist.
Jean CocteauRead
All good music resembles something. Good music stirs by its mysterious resemblance to the objects and feelings which motivated it.
Jean CocteauRead
Nothing ever gets anywhere. The earth keeps turning round and gets nowhere. The moment is the only thing that counts.
Jean CocteauRead
Listen carefully to first criticisms made of your work. Note just what it is about your work that critics don't like - then cultivate it. That's the only part of your work that's individual and worth keeping.
Jean CocteauRead
Watch yourself all your life in a mirror and you'll see Death at work like bees in a glass hive.
Jean CocteauRead
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Comedy holds the greatest risk for an actor, and laughter is the reward.
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