There are two insults no human being will endure: that he has no sense of humor, and that he has never known trouble.
Interpretation
People despise being called humorless or trouble-free, as these imply a lack of depth in their experiences.
This quote by Sinclair Lewis highlights the societal perceptions surrounding humor and personal struggles. It suggests that individuals take offense when they are labeled as having no sense of humor, which can imply a lack of emotional intelligence or relatable experience. Similarly, being told one has never faced trouble undermines the validity of their journey and growth, as overcoming challenges is a fundamental aspect of the human experience.
In practice
During a speech about resilience, the speaker referenced this quote to emphasize the importance of facing life's challenges.
Upon this theology he rarely pondered. The kernel of his practical religion was that it was respectable, and beneficial to one's business, to be seen going to services; that the church kept the Worst Elements from being still worse; and that the pastor's sermons, however dull they might seem at the time of taking, yet had a voodooistic power which 'did a fellow good-- kept him in touch with Higher Things.
Intellectually I know that America is no better than any other country; emotionally I know she is better than every other country.
Writers kid themselves-about themselves and other people. Take the talk about writing methods. Writing is just work-there's no secret. If you dictate or use a pen or type with your toes-it is just work.
She did her work with the thoroughness of a mind which reveres details and never quite understands them.
Writing is just work-there's no secret. If you dictate or use a pen or type or write with your toes-it's still just work.
It is, I think, an error to believe that there is any need of religion to make life seem worth living.
I don't deny it," said Frodo, looking at Sam, who was now grinning. "I don't deny it, but I'll never believe you are sleeping again, whether you snore or not. I shall kick you hard to make sure.
I never eat sushi. I have trouble eating things that are merely unconscious.
I was doing sketches that were funny but socially irresponsible. I felt I was deliberately being encouraged and I was overwhelmed.
Agnes was the worst prophet that's ever existed. Because she was always right. That's why the book never sold.
McDonald's breakfast for under a dollar is actually more expensive than that. You have to factor in the cost of bypass surgery.
Wit is so shining a quality that everybody admires it; most people aim at it, all people fear it, and few love it unless in themselves. A man must have a good share of wit himself to endure a great share of it in another.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.