We've got a bunch of new writers now who tell me they grew up watching The Simpsons. It's bizarre, and they're writing some very funny stuff.
Interpretation
The quote highlights the influence of 'The Simpsons' on new generations of writers in comedy.
In this quote, Matt Groening reflects on the surprising impact that his television show, 'The Simpsons,' has had on a new generation of writers, many of whom grew up enjoying its unique brand of humor. He finds it remarkable that these young talents are now contributing to comedy themselves, showcasing how influential cultural icons can shape the creative landscape and inspire new voices in the industry.
In practice
During a writing workshop, one could use this quote to illustrate the impact of past media on current storytelling.
The thing about a cartoon is, you can do whatever you want. The tightrope that we are walking on 'The Simpsons' and 'Futurama' is "How do you continue to surprise the audience, but make them good surprises?" Not every surprise is good, but you want to continue jolting people.
I was the captain of the latent paranoid softball team. We used to play all the neurotics on sunday morning. Nailbiters against the bedwetters, and if you've never seen neurotics play softball, it's really funny. I used to steal second base, and feel guilty and go back.
Humor has to surprise us; otherwise, it isn't funny. It's a death knell for a writer to be labeled a humorist because then it's not a surprise anymore.
Making people laugh is a really fabulous thing because it means you're getting deep inside somebody, into their psyche, and their ability to look at themselves.
His argument is as thin as the homeopathic soup that was made by oiling the shadow of a pigeon that had been starved to death.
I have Van Gogh's ear for music
All men are fools, if truth be told, but the ones in motley are more amusing than ones with crowns.
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