I must admit I am nervous about getting Alzheimer's. Once it hits, I might tell my best joke and never know it.
Joan RiversRead
Any comic is a very good actor. Look at Don Rickles. He is saying the same joke every night for 20 years and making it look like he just thought of it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A comic's skill lies in their ability to deliver the same material uniquely each time, showcasing their acting talent.
In this quote, Joan Rivers highlights the extraordinary talent of comedians like Don Rickles, who can perform the same jokes repeatedly while making them seem fresh and spontaneous. This ability to engage the audience and evoke laughter through skilled delivery demonstrates the artistry involved in comedy, which is often underestimated.
Themes
ComedyActingPerformanceJokesTalent
In practice
Example use cases
During a stand-up comedy workshop, one could reference this quote to illustrate the craft of performance.
More from Joan Rivers
All quotes →"I've learned what's funny verbally ain't so funny on e-mail: They don't hear your intonations. Melissa broke up with somebody over that. She tried to tell him: "That was a joke!" But he just didn't get it. Mick Jagger said, "F- 'em if they don't get the joke." And I love him. That comes with age: Knowing it's their problem, not mine."
Joan RiversRead
I enjoy life when things are happening. I don't care if it's good things or bad things. That means you're alive.
Joan RiversRead
Life goes by fast. Enjoy it. Calm down. It's all funny.
Joan RiversRead
Life is so tough. I don't know how old you are, but I've seen so much in a wink. One phone call and your life is changed forever. We all know that. You better laugh at everything.
Joan RiversRead
I walk on a stage, and I know if it's been a good show or not. You know when it's been a good interview. No one has to tell you. You know it. You feel it. You can feel the air. You can feel everything about it when it's a good show. And you know when you've messed up.
Joan RiversRead
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