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

Summary

In 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.