Skip to content

Comedy Quote by Doris Lessing

“A Nasrudin 'joke' may at first seem unfunny, or pointless, but will after study change and begin to reveal itself: you have uncovered the first level of meaning, and will soon observe your thought patterns shift as you watch them; you will have made the first crack in the wall of assumptions, the…” quote by Doris Lessing
Download Open image
““A Nasrudin 'joke' may at first seem unfunny, or pointless, but will after study change and begin to reveal itself: you have uncovered the first level of meaning, and will soon observe your thought patterns shift as you watch them; you will have made the first crack in the wall of assumptions, the conditioned thinking (designated 'The Old Villain') which imprisons each and every one of us, the worst of which is to think that the visible world is all there is, that a man's or a mouse's view of life is the true one.””

Doris Lessing

About This Quote

Source Book: The Golden Notebook by Doris Lessing, 1962

The joke illustrates how initial confusion can lead to deeper insight, exposing hidden assumptions and expanding perception beyond surface appearances.

In simple terms: A funny story can reveal hidden beliefs and broaden view.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions to see beyond the obvious.

Themes

perception mindfulness humor philosophy self‑awareness

Mood

curious reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational humorous

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • education
  • therapy
  • creative problem solving

Key Concepts

cognitive bias critical thinking meta‑cognition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions do you notice when you feel confused?
  • How can humor help you see hidden patterns?
A Different Perspective

Humor may not resonate with everyone and can be misinterpreted.

4.6 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Doris Lessing

Explore all 508 Doris Lessing quotes

More Comedy quotes

Browse all 19,795 Comedy quotes