"I think, for me, humour needs to be used like a strong spice - sparingly"

Humor, when used in conversation or writing, carries a distinctive power. It can endear, disarm, or clarify, yet its potency also means it can easily overwhelm if not handled with care. The comparison to a strong spice is particularly apt, just as a pinch of chili can lend depth and complexity to a dish, a brief moment of levity can enhance communication, making ideas more memorable or lightening a tense mood. However, excessive spice drowns out other flavors and potentially makes food inedible; similarly, an overabundance of jokes or irony crowds out nuance and may detract from the intended message.

George Murray’s statement acknowledges how humor’s effect is intensified by its rarity. A well-timed joke, unexpected and subtle, can be far more impactful than a relentless barrage of wit. Thoughtful restraint signals an understanding of context, knowing when to draw attention, diffuse tension, or add color, and equally recognizing when gravity and sincerity are more appropriate. Humor used sparingly respects the audience, keeping them receptive and preventing fatigue or the sense that important subjects are being minimized.

Effective humor reveals both craftsmanship and empathy. It requires consideration of tone, audience, and purpose, as well as self-awareness. Instead of simply chasing laughs, the judicious use of humor builds trust, conveying that the speaker values both the subject matter and the listener’s experience. Much like a chef carefully balancing ingredients to heighten the meal, a skilled communicator chooses just the right moments for humor, enhancing rather than overwhelming.

In both everyday life and creative endeavors, the restrained application of humor remains one of the most artful communication skills. Its strength lies not just in the laughter it provokes, but also in the moments it’s consciously withheld, maintaining the integrity and substance of the overall message.