"A pun is not bound by the laws which limit nicer wit. It is a pistol let off at the ear; not a feather to tickle the intellect"

Charles Lamb's quote is an amusing method of describing the power of puns. He is stating that puns are not limited by the exact same guidelines that govern more advanced wit. Rather, they are like a weapon that is fired directly at the listener's ear. They are not suggested to be subtle or to carefully tickle the intellect. Rather, they are loud and direct, and they can have an effective effect on the listener. Puns can be utilized to make a point, to create a humorous impact, or to make a joke. They can also be used to create a sense of surprise or to make a clever observation. Charles Lamb's quote is a reminder that puns can be an effective tool in the hands of an experienced speaker.