Skip to content

I don't think I'm a witty person. To me, a witty person is…

“I don't think I'm a witty person. To me, a witty person is a funny person who is also a smart person. My friend David Rakoff, who died a few years ago, he was a witty person. Fran Lebowitz is a witty person. I don't think there are that many witty people around, so you tend to notice them when…” quote by David Sedaris
Download Open image
“I don't think I'm a witty person. To me, a witty person is a funny person who is also a smart person. My friend David Rakoff, who died a few years ago, he was a witty person. Fran Lebowitz is a witty person. I don't think there are that many witty people around, so you tend to notice them when they do come around. I don't consider myself to be that.”

David Sedaris

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The speaker distinguishes wit as a blend of humor and intelligence, noting its rarity and personal lack thereof.

In simple terms: Wit = humor + intelligence, rare.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and appreciate wit in others.

Themes

humor intelligence rarity

Mood

reflective lighthearted

Type

observational self‑deprecating

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • reading humor columns
  • public speaking
  • writing comedy

Key Concepts

social observation self-awareness

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value wit in yourself?
  • How can you cultivate wit?
A Different Perspective

Wit may be undervalued in cultures that prioritize seriousness.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by David Sedaris

Explore all 667 David Sedaris quotes

More Comedy quotes

Browse all 19,795 Comedy quotes