Skip to content

However, a good laugh is a mighty good thing, and rather…

“However, a good laugh is a mighty good thing, and rather too scarce a good thing; the more's the pity. So, if any one man, in his own proper person, afford stuff for a good joke to anybody, let him not be backward, but let him cheerfully allow himself to spend and to be spent in that way. And the…” quote by Herman Melville
Download Open image
““However, a good laugh is a mighty good thing, and rather too scarce a good thing; the more's the pity. So, if any one man, in his own proper person, afford stuff for a good joke to anybody, let him not be backward, but let him cheerfully allow himself to spend and to be spent in that way. And the man that has anything bountifully laughable about him, be sure there is more in that man than you perhaps think for.””

Herman Melville

About This Quote

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

Laughter is a valuable, rare commodity that should be shared generously, and those who can laugh often possess deeper worth than assumed.

In simple terms: Laugh often; share humor; recognize hidden depth.

Key Takeaway

Share humor, value laughter.

Themes

humor generosity human nature self-awareness perception

Mood

lighthearted reflective

Type

observational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • social gatherings
  • team building
  • stress relief
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

social connection psychology self-esteem

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you create space for laughter at work?
  • What does humor reveal about personal resilience?
A Different Perspective

Not everyone appreciates humor; cultural differences can limit sharing.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Herman Melville

Explore all 1,009 Herman Melville quotes

More Comedy quotes

Browse all 19,795 Comedy quotes