"A joke is not a thing but a process, a trick you play on the listener's mind. You start him off toward a plausible goal, and then by a sudden twist you land him nowhere at all or just where he didn't expect to go"
- Max Eastman
About this Quote
In this quote, Max Eastman is describing the nature of a joke. He suggests that a joke is not just a things or a declaration, but rather a process that includes controling the listener's ideas. The joke-teller begins by leading the listener towards a rational and believable outcome, just to quickly alter direction and leave them with an unexpected or unforeseen outcome. This abrupt twist is what makes a joke reliable and enjoyable. Eastman also indicates that the success of a joke relies greatly on the listener's mind and their capability to be led and amazed. In general, this quote highlights the smart and strategic nature of humor.
This quote is written / told by Max Eastman between January 4, 1883 and March 25, 1969. He was a famous Author from USA.
The author also have 15 other quotes.
"It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them"