August Quote by Dave Barry
“You should not use your fireplace, because scientists now believe that, contrary to popular opinion, fireplaces actually remove heat from houses. Really, that's what scientists believe. In fact many scientists actually use their fireplaces to cool their houses in the summer. If you visit a scientist's house on a sultry August day, you'll find a cheerful fire roaring on the hearth and the scientist sitting nearby, remarking on how cool he is and drinking heavily.”
About This Quote
Source Column: Satirical piece on fireplaces, 1998
Scientists humorously claim fireplaces cool houses, mocking misconceptions about heat removal
In simple terms: Fireplaces supposedly cool houses, according to a tongue‑in‑cheek claim
Question scientific claims with humor
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- home heating
- energy efficiency
- public education
- media literacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do satirists have?
- How to differentiate satire from fact?
Joking can spread false ideas if taken seriously