I've found great virtue in two-thirds of the way into the…
“I've found great virtue in two-thirds of the way into the message; right before I'm really want to nail home a point, pausing to tell a joke or to tell a light-hearted story, because I know my audience has been working with me now for 20 or 25 minutes. And if I can get them to laugh, get oxygen into their system, it wakes up those who might be sleeping, so there's something about using a story to draw people back in right before you drive home your final point. In that case I think it's real legitimate just to use a story for story's sake.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Using humor and stories re‑engages audiences before concluding points, making messages memorable.
In simple terms: Stories and jokes refresh listeners.
Key Takeaway
Pause for a story before ending.
Themes
communication
public speaking
engagement
humor
storytelling
Mood
energetic
inspirational
Type
educational
motivational
When to use this quote
- presentations
- workshops
- teaching
- leadership training
Key Concepts
attention span
cognitive reset
emotional connection
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance humor and substance?
- When is a story most effective?
A Different Perspective
Overuse of jokes can dilute the core message.