"I thought they may have presumed too much knowledge of certain things for people who are not comedians. Like Montreal. A comic understands what it is and its importance, but someone else may not know about it"

In this quote, comedian Todd Barry is assessing the assumption that some cultural referrals or understanding may be generally comprehended when, in truth, they are not. Barry speaks to the understanding within specific subcultures-- in this case, comedians-- of certain ideas and contexts that are not necessarily familiar to the general public.

The reference of "Montreal" is particularly substantial in the funny world since it is home to the Just for Laughs celebration, among the largest and most prestigious comedy celebrations worldwide. For comics, being invited to carry out there can be a significant career turning point. However, as Barry highlights, this significance might not be apparent to those outside the comedy community. The expectation that everybody comprehends the cultural weight of certain references can produce barriers to communication.

Barry's observation sheds light on a wider phenomenon where specific niche or expert understanding ends up being a kind of shorthand among members of a group while remaining unattainable to outsiders. It touches upon the idea of what may be called "expert language", where specific terms or principles bring a specific significance known only to those within a particular circle.

This concept is not distinct to funny. Numerous occupations, hobbies, and communities have their own insider referents, which might appear odd or arcane to those unfamiliar with them. Barry's remark acts as a reminder of the gap that can exist in between insiders and outsiders and the assumptions that may unintentionally omit or alienate those not 'in the know.'

Eventually, Barry's declaration encourages a consideration of how we communicate and the assumptions we make about shared understanding. For effective communication and inclusivity, it's vital to acknowledge when specialized understanding might not be as universal as we might presume and to bridge these gaps thoughtfully.