Jerry Seinfeld Interview: How to Write a Joke | The New York Times

The New York Times
20 Dec 201205:02

Summary

TLDRIn this candid reflection on the art of comedy writing, the speaker discusses the lengthy process behind crafting jokes, humorously recounting their experience with childhood food items like Pop-Tarts and Shredded Wheat. They emphasize the challenge of creating punchlines, comparing the structure of a joke to songwriting, where timing and delivery are crucial. The speaker embraces the seemingly trivial nature of their work, highlighting that the more absurd or irrelevant a topic feels, the more satisfying it becomes to explore. This unique perspective offers insight into the creative process behind comedy and the joy of finding humor in the mundane.

Takeaways

  • 😀 Comedy writing often feels like a waste of time but can lead to unique insights and humor.
  • 😂 The creative process involves deep reflection on seemingly trivial subjects.
  • 📝 The speaker has spent two years working on material, indicating the dedication involved in comedy writing.
  • 🍞 The introduction of the Pop-Tart is compared to a transformative experience, highlighting nostalgia for simpler breakfast options.
  • 🤔 Humor relies on relatable experiences, such as the difficulties of childhood breakfasts like Shredded Wheat.
  • 🎤 Timing is crucial in comedy; the biggest laughs should come at the end of a routine.
  • 🔗 Finding connections between ideas is likened to fitting together a jigsaw puzzle.
  • 🕰️ The speaker emphasizes the importance of spending the right amount of time on subjects deemed 'worthy' versus those considered 'stupid.'
  • ✨ The absurdity of modern food products can lead to comedic material, showcasing the intersection of everyday life and humor.
  • 😄 Comedy writing is a personal and often secretive process, as the speaker has not shared this work with others.

Q & A

  • What is the primary theme of the speaker's discussion?

    -The speaker reflects on the often unappreciated and time-consuming nature of comedy writing, contrasting it with more serious subjects.

  • How long has the speaker been working on their comedy material?

    -The speaker mentions they have been working on their comedy material for about two years.

  • What does the speaker compare their writing process to?

    -The speaker compares their writing process to songwriting, emphasizing the importance of timing and the structure of jokes.

  • What significance does the speaker attribute to the Pop-Tart in their comedic narrative?

    -The speaker describes the Pop-Tart as a revolutionary food item that emerged during a time when breakfast options were limited, using it as a catalyst for humor.

  • What personal experience does the speaker relate to breakfast foods?

    -The speaker shares a humorous memory of having frozen orange juice and eating Shredded Wheat, comparing it to an unpleasant experience.

  • Why does the speaker feel uncomfortable sharing their comedy writing process?

    -The speaker feels a bit apprehensive because comedy writing is typically a secretive process, and they have never shown their work to anyone before.

  • What comedic technique does the speaker mention when creating jokes?

    -The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a strong setup and punchline, ensuring the biggest laugh occurs at the end of the joke.

  • How does the speaker view the time spent on seemingly trivial subjects?

    -The speaker believes that spending a lot of time on something that appears trivial can feel rewarding, especially if it resonates well with the audience.

  • What contrast does the speaker make between their work and that of serious journalism?

    -The speaker contrasts their focus on humorous and 'undeserving' subjects with the more serious and deserving subjects typically covered by journalists.

  • What does the speaker reveal about their writing tool?

    -The speaker mentions using a specific pen, the BCK clear barrel blue, to write every episode of Seinfeld, highlighting the importance of tools in the creative process.

Outlines

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Highlights

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Transcripts

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Ähnliche Tags
Comedy WritingHumor ReflectionPop-Tart JokeCreative ProcessWriting ChallengesTrivial TopicsAudience EngagementSerious JournalismAbsurd HumorNostalgic Food
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