Talk about what drives you crazy
Why you should use analogies and focus on things that make your blood boil.
Jerry Corley (former Tonight Show writer) on using analogy to write jokes.
Analogies are almost instant jokes. Why? Because, by their nature they are incongruous. Incongruity causes surprise, and surprise is the number one element that triggers human laughter, which is our goal when we’re learning how to write comedy, So next time you’re looking for something funny, just use an analogy.
Also, focus on stuff you truly care about:
Therefore, one of the best things you can do as a stand up is to focus on stuff you give a damn about. George Carlin once told me, “Take the shit that drives you absolutely crazy and make it funny:” That’s great advice, because if you, as the stand up comedian don’t give a damn about the material, the audience won’t either.
Here’s the key: Start with something you care about, that gets your blood up. Not something that is funny. The funny comes after you’re talking about what you care about–get it? DON’T SIT DOWN TO WRITE SOMETHING FUNNY!
Thanks. Both these tips are great. I’ve been toying with the idea of writing an article about shit that drives me nuts and your article just convinced me.
I’ve included use of analogies in the ChatGPT editing/critique prompt I use for my articles.