Crush Your Joke Writing Using Compare & Contrast Structure

Summary

In this insightful video, Jerry Corley, the Joke Doctor, explores the effectiveness of the compare and contrast structure in comedy writing. He explains how this technique enhances humor by juxtaposing dissimilar ideas, leading to recognition and surprise. Through examples from notable comedians like Jim Gaffigan and Bill Burr, Corley illustrates how side-by-side comparisons and leading comparisons can elevate comedic impact. By demonstrating the simplicity and efficiency of this structure, he encourages aspiring comedians to incorporate these techniques into their own routines for greater audience engagement and laughter.

Takeaways

• 😀 Compare and contrast is an effective comedy structure that highlights differences between dissimilar ideas, tapping into recognition and surprise.
• 😀 This structure is commonly used by top comedians like Jim Gaffigan, Bill Burr, and George Carlin to enhance their comedic rhythm.
• 😀 Live stand-up comedy requires clear communication since audiences can only track a few ideas simultaneously, making compare and contrast an efficient tool.
• 😀 The compare and contrast technique can clarify jokes and make them more impactful by showcasing stark differences.
• 😀 Comedians can use a leading comparison to guide audiences' expectations before delivering a punchline that subverts those expectations.
• 😀 Jim Gaffigan's humor often involves comparisons that heighten the comedic effect, such as contrasting extremes in appearance.
• 😀 The bad news/good news trope exemplifies compare and contrast, as seen in Rita Rudner's jokes, which juxtapose negative and positive scenarios.
• 😀 Comedians can illustrate personal achievements humorously by contrasting them with extraordinary accomplishments, as demonstrated with Olympic references.
• 😀 Mastering the compare and contrast structure allows comedians to develop their unique comedic voice and perspective.
• 😀 The video promotes courses on comedy writing, emphasizing that learning structures and devices can improve comedic writing skills.

Q & A

What is the core concept discussed in the video?

The video discusses the compare and contrast structure in comedy, explaining how it can enhance jokes and comedic writing.

How does the compare and contrast structure function in comedy?

This structure highlights the differences between two dissimilar ideas, creating a pattern that can be humorously shattered by a punchline.

Which comedians are mentioned as users of the compare and contrast structure?

The video mentions comedians such as George Carlin, Jim Gaffigan, Rita Rudner, and Bill Burr as prominent users of this comedic technique.

What technique does Jim Gaffigan frequently use in his comedy?

Jim Gaffigan often uses leading comparisons, where he sets up an expectation and then delivers a surprising twist.

Can you provide an example of compare and contrast from Jim Gaffigan's comedy?

In his joke, Gaffigan states, 'There’s no medium rare for me. I either look like I’ve never been outside or I was just released from a burn unit,' which enhances the humor through comparison.

What is the significance of recognition and incongruity in comedy according to the video?

Recognition and incongruity are essential as they help the audience connect with the humor, making it easier to follow the jokes.

How does Rita Rudner utilize the compare and contrast structure?

Rita Rudner uses the 'bad news, good news' trope to illustrate contrasting perspectives, effectively delivering humor in a concise format.

What is a leading comparison, and how is it applied in comedy?

A leading comparison involves setting the audience up to expect a particular direction in a joke, then taking an unexpected turn for comedic effect.

What practical advice does Jerry Corley offer to aspiring comedians?

Corley advises comedians to explore the compare and contrast structure in their writing to create more relatable and impactful jokes.

What resources does Jerry Corley provide for further learning?

Corley offers writing courses on comedy structures, which include practical exercises to help comedians master various comedic tropes.