You don't tell people who disagree with you they'd be better off somewhere else. And you don't reduce them to stereotypes; you address them as fully formed people worthy of respect. You try to persuade them.
Peggy NoonanRead
Wit penetrates; humor envelops. Wit is a function of verbal intelligence; humor is imagination operating on good nature.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wit is sharp and intelligent, while humor is more about warmth and creativity.
This quote by Peggy Noonan highlights the difference between wit and humor. Wit is characterized by its cleverness and sharpness, requiring a certain level of verbal intelligence to convey quick, insightful remarks. In contrast, humor encompasses a broader spectrum where imagination meets a disposition of goodwill, creating laughter and joy that envelops others. Essentially, while wit can be cutting or incisive, humor is more gentle and inclusive, fostering a sense of connection and positivity.
Themes
WitHumorIntelligenceImaginationNature
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about creativity, you might say, 'Wit penetrates; humor envelops, illustrating how we can reach deeper truths while creating joy.'
More from Peggy Noonan
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When everyone in America knows you're in a dreadful position, admit you're in a dreadful position. Don't lie about it and make them roll their eyes, tell the truth and make them blink.
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