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I use the cigar for timing purposes. If I tell a joke, I…

“I use the cigar for timing purposes. If I tell a joke, I smoke as long as they laugh and when they stop laughing I take the cigar out of my mouth and start my next joke.” quote by George Burns
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“I use the cigar for timing purposes. If I tell a joke, I smoke as long as they laugh and when they stop laughing I take the cigar out of my mouth and start my next joke.”

George Burns

About This Quote

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

The cigar serves as a timing device for jokes, linking laughter duration to performance pacing.

In simple terms: He uses a cigar to time jokes.

Key Takeaway

Use audience reaction to guide pacing.

Themes

comedy timing performance audience humor

Mood

humorous practical

Type

performative instructional

When to use this quote

  • stand‑up shows
  • improvisation
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

communication stagecraft psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you adapt timing without props?
  • What other cues can signal joke endings?
A Different Perspective

Reliance on audience may limit control.

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