Anagrams Quote by Lorrie Moore
“Start dating someone who is funny, someone who has what in high school you called a "really great sense of humor" and what now your creative writing class calls "self-contempt giving rise to comic form." Write down all of his jokes, but don't tell him you are doing this. Make up anagrams of his old girlfriend's name and name all of your socially handicapped characters with them. Tell him his old girlfriend is in all of your stories and then watch how funny he can be, see what a really great sense of humor he can have.”
About This Quote
A satirical guide to testing a partner's humor by covertly embedding personal references into creative work, exposing how humor can mask deeper insecurities.
In simple terms: Testing humor through hidden personal jokes.
Key Takeaway
Humor can reveal hidden vulnerabilities.
Themes
humor
relationship dynamics
creative expression
psychological testing
self-awareness
Mood
playful
ironic
critical
Type
advice
satire
When to use this quote
- dating a new partner
- writing a story
- playing a prank
- exploring personal insecurities
Key Concepts
satire
self-reflection
interpersonal manipulation
Practical Applications
- creative writing exercises
- relationship self-assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humor function as a coping mechanism?
- What are ethical boundaries in using personal data for jokes?
A Different Perspective
Such manipulation may erode trust rather than foster genuine connection.
