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Comedy Quote by John Irving

“But comedy is ingrained. A writer doesn't choose to be comic. You can choose a plot, or not to have one. You can choose your characters. But comedy is not a choice; it just comes out that way.” quote by John Irving
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““But comedy is ingrained. A writer doesn't choose to be comic. You can choose a plot, or not to have one. You can choose your characters. But comedy is not a choice; it just comes out that way.””

John Irving

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Paris Review, 1995

Comedy emerges naturally from a writer's voice and perspective, not from deliberate choice of plot or characters.

In simple terms: Comedy comes from the writer's natural voice.

Key Takeaway

Trust your voice for humor.

Themes

creativity humor authenticity writing voice

Mood

playful insightful

Type

advice inspirational

When to use this quote

  • scriptwriting
  • stand‑up comedy
  • novel drafting
  • improvisation

Key Concepts

Narrative voice spontaneity genre theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your personal voice shape humor?
  • When does humor enhance a story?
A Different Perspective

Attempting forced comedy can feel inauthentic.

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