"People may say that what I do is very clever, but it's not really at all. It's not Swift"

In this quote, Rory Bremner, a popular British impressionist and satirist, is dealing with the perception of his work and its intellectual worth. While people might frequently concern his craft as smart, Bremner downplays this evaluation by contrasting it with the work of Jonathan Swift, the popular 18th-century writer and satirist. Swift was understood for his sharp wit and profound insights into human nature and society, exhibited in works like "Gulliver's Travels" and "A Modest Proposal". By saying "It's not Swift", Bremner is suggesting that his own work does not reach the very same level of incisive commentary or literary sparkle that Swift's did.

Bremner's statement can be seen as an exercise in humbleness. It acknowledges the complexity and depth of genuinely exceptional satire while concurrently highlighting the challenges associated with producing significant commentary through humor. By conjuring up Swift, he sets a high bar for what it implies to be genuinely smart in the world of satirical art. This acknowledgment reflects self-awareness and maybe even a touch of respect for the art type. It reminds the audience that while comical and satirical work may entertain and provoke idea, it often originates from a various location than the cutting-edge social and political critiques offered by figures like Swift.

This remark might likewise be analyzed as a commentary on the nature of modern satire within the fast-paced media landscape. In Bremner's view, maybe contemporary satire, including his own, is often created more for immediate effect instead of sustaining radiance or deep reflection. The quote implicitly raises concerns about the function and expectations of satire today, suggesting that while it can be sharp and smart, there is an inherent constraint compared to the classic and extensive satire of the past. Thus, Bremner's quip serves both as a nod to his audience's gratitude and a reflection on the evolving nature of satirical expression.