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 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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humor can serve as a coping mechanism, offering comfort and choice in difficult situations.
In this quote, Simon Amstell reflects on the dual nature of humor, acknowledging that while it often functions as a defense mechanism against life's challenges, he also appreciates it as a conscious choice rather than a reflexive reaction to stress. This perspective highlights the empowering aspect of humor, allowing it to transform a potentially negative situation into something enjoyable and lighthearted.
Themes
HumorDefense MechanismChoiceLaughterCoping
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about resilience, one might say, 'As Simon Amstell noted, humor can help us navigate tough times.'
More from Simon Amstell
All quotes →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.
Simon AmstellRead
I don't see the point of doing comedy unless it comes from pain.
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
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