"A lot of comedians, when they have a bad gig, will blame everything but themselves. They'll blame the crowd, or the room was wrong, it had a weird vibe, or the promoter promoted a weird atmosphere"
- Allan Carr
About this Quote
In this quote, Alan Carr, a widely known comedian and tv personality, assesses the propensity of some comedians to externalize the blame when a performance does not go well. His observation indicate a common psychological habits where people deflect responsibility to maintain their self-esteem and secure their ego from the blow of failure. In the context of stand-up funny, the comic is the primary element of the efficiency, and when a gig is not successful, it might feel more individual and direct than in most other professions.
Carr highlights an element of human nature: the disposition to associate failures to external scenarios instead of internal imperfections. By blaming the crowd or the ambiance of the location, comics might feel a momentary sense of relief, as it eliminates them from the locus of control of the unfavorable experience. This habits might function as a defense reaction against the naturally vulnerable act of performing live comedy, where the feedback is instantaneous and typically unforgiving.
The quote likewise implicitly supporters for self-reflection and responsibility. By recognizing this tendency to blame external factors, Carr suggests that development and improvement may come from owning one's efficiency and considering aspects within the comedian's control. This involves analyzing their material, shipment, and engagement with the audience. By taking obligation, comics are more likely to evaluate the situation objectively, gain from it, and adjust their craft in a constructive way.
Eventually, Carr's quote is an amusing yet insightful commentary on the more comprehensive themes of accountability, self-awareness, and individual development. It advises performers and audiences alike that while specific external factors can indeed affect the outcome of a program, a person's response to these factors plays a crucial role in their journey toward proficiency and success in their selected field.
