The importance of laughter and humor is often underestimated in our daily lives. In Shakespeare’s play “The Merchant of Venice,” he urges us to embrace laughter and allow it to bring joy into our lives. Similarly, Mark Twain promotes humor in his short story “How I Edited an Agricultural Paper.”
In the story, Twain finds himself in an unexpected position as the editor of an agricultural newspaper. Despite having no knowledge or experience in agriculture, he takes on the role with enthusiasm. He quickly gains attention with his writings, attracting curious readers who line up to catch a glimpse of this new editor.
One day, an elderly gentleman approaches Twain seeking advice on his newspaper articles. When asked about his agricultural experience, Twain honestly admits to having none. This confession does not deter the old man, who proceeds to read one of Twain’s editorials. In it, Twain suggests that turnips should not be pulled, but instead, a boy should shake the tree. The old man is outraged and storms out, breaking objects with his cane along the way.
Shortly after the old gentleman’s departure, a young man rushes into the room, urging Twain to read an article in the agricultural paper. Twain obliges and discovers that the article contains numerous inaccuracies regarding guano, grains, and pumpkins. Despite the flaws, the young man finds solace in Twain’s writing, believing that his reason has withstood the test of such an absurd article.
Just as Twain’s reputation for comical agricultural advice is starting to spread, the editor of the newspaper unexpectedly returns from vacation. Disturbed by the reports of Twain’s writings, he fears that the paper’s reputation will be forever tarnished. He scolds Twain, stating that he knows nothing about agriculture.
In response to the editor’s seriousness, Twain dismisses the notion that one needs to possess knowledge in order to edit a newspaper. He compares his lack of agricultural expertise to the individuals who write dramatic critiques for second-rate papers, expressing that they likely know as much about good acting as he knows about farming.
By the end of the story, Twain remains resilient against the negative reactions he receives. Instead, he views the experiences as an opportunity to promote a comical spirit in everyone. He believes that laughter and humor have the power to overcome difficulties and bring light to even the darkest situations.
This sentiment is echoed by Laura Ingalls Wilder in her book “Laura Ingalls Wilder, Farm Journalist: Writings From the Ozarks.” She states, “A good laugh overcomes more difficulties and dissipates more dark clouds than any other one thing.” Encouraging laughter and humor in our lives allows us to become beacons of joy, spreading positivity and lifting the spirits of those around us.
In conclusion, both Shakespeare and Mark Twain emphasize the importance of laughter and humor in our lives. By embracing these elements, we can find joy even in serious matters and bring light to the darkest of times. Let us heed their advice and cultivate a comical spirit within ourselves, spreading happiness and positivity wherever we go.
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