Just to keep bad dreams at bay, she took a swig out of a bottle that smelled of apples and happy brain-death.
Terry PratchettRead
The object of a comedy is not to correct morals or ridicule the vices of society; no, a comedy should depict the discrepancies between life and purpose, should be the fruit of bitter indignation aroused by the degradation of human dignity, should be sarcasm, and not an epigram, convulsive laughter and not an amused grin, should be written with bile and not diluted salt, in a word, it should embrace life in its highest significance.
Interpretation
Comedy serves to highlight the discrepancies between life and purpose, rather than merely correcting morals or mocking society.
This quote by Vissarion Belinsky emphasizes that true comedy should aim to reveal and critique the contradictions in human existence and societal values. Rather than being a mere tool for ethical correction or light-hearted laughter, it should evoke a sense of profound indignation and deep reflection about the human condition, embracing both the absurdity and dignity of life.
In practice
During a comedy night, the host referenced Belinsky's view to remind comedians to focus on life’s deeper meanings.
Just to keep bad dreams at bay, she took a swig out of a bottle that smelled of apples and happy brain-death.
Duct tape is like the force. It has a light side, and it holds the world together.
I want everyone out there in TV land to touch the TV. Touch the back of the TV and get a shock for Jesus.
Someone asked why I invited Jon Stewart to be the first guest on the 'Journal''s premiere in 2007. 'Because Mark Twain isn't available,' I answered. I was serious.
Political satire became obsolete when they awarded Henry Kissinger the Nobel Peace Prize.
There is nothing funny about Halloween. This sarcastic festival reflects, rather, an infernal demand for revenge by children on the adult world.
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