You see people who are still there doing things but their souls have disappeared so there's no joy in it anymore, so I'm scared of not listening to the part of me that knows when it's time to stop something and start something new.
Simon AmstellRead
I felt like there was something wrong with me in my twenties but, when I started doing stand up comedy, I learnt that if you tell the truth it's really funny and people connect to it. So I think if I keep doing that then I'll be happy.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the idea that honesty can lead to personal happiness and connection with others through humor.
In this quote, Simon Amstell shares his journey of self-discovery and acceptance through the lens of stand-up comedy. Initially feeling a sense of inadequacy in his twenties, he found that expressing his truths in a humorous way resonated with others. This realization not only brought him joy but also fostered genuine connections with his audience, highlighting the power of authenticity and the universal appeal of shared experiences.
Themes
HumorTruthConnectionHappinessAuthenticity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to inspire young comedians struggling with self-doubt.
More from Simon Amstell
All quotes →I don't see the point of doing comedy unless it comes from pain.
Simon AmstellRead
I think as much as I talk about humour being a defence mechanism, I'm also really grateful that I developed it, because I now have it as a choice, rather than a panic button. I feel like it's there if I want to use it. It's fun.
Simon AmstellRead
By saying the thing that I'm most embarrassed about on stage, I end up witnessing the fact that it isn't a problem. People don't usually walk out, when I say the thing that I'm deeply ashamed of.
Simon AmstellRead
Similar quotes
It's impossible to write about Native life without humor-that's how people maintain sanity.
Louise ErdrichRead
KILT, n. A costume sometimes worn by Scotchmen in America and Americans in Scotland.
Ambrose BierceRead
I live on a one-way street that's also a dead end. I'm not sure how I got there.
Steven WrightRead
Laughter can relieve tension, soothe the pain of disappointment, and strengthen the spirit for the formidable tasks that always lie ahead.
Dwight D. EisenhowerRead
If I can get you to laugh with me, you like me better, which makes you open to my ideas
John CleeseRead
My roommate says, "I'm going to take a shower and shave. Does anyone need to use the bathroom?" It's like some weird quiz where he reveals the answer first.
Mitch HedbergRead