Skip to content

Afterwards Quote by Lynda Barry

“It's not hard for me to be funny in front of people, but most of that is just horrified nerves taking the form of what makes people laugh, and afterwards I'd always feel dreadfully depressed, kind of self-induced bi-polar disorder.” quote by Lynda Barry
Download Open image
“It's not hard for me to be funny in front of people, but most of that is just horrified nerves taking the form of what makes people laugh, and afterwards I'd always feel dreadfully depressed, kind of self-induced bi-polar disorder.”

Lynda Barry

About This Quote

Source Interview: Conversation with Lynda Barry, The Paris Review, 2015

Performing humor masks deep anxiety, leading to post‑performance depression that feels like a self‑induced mood swing.

In simple terms: Comedy can hide inner turmoil.

Key Takeaway

Address underlying anxiety, not just performance.

Themes

mental health creativity performance anxiety

Mood

introspective somber

Type

personal psychological

When to use this quote

  • stand‑up shows
  • writing sessions
  • therapy groups

Key Concepts

self‑esteem mood disorders artistic expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • What coping strategies help after performing?
  • How can creators protect mental health?
A Different Perspective

Humor alone may not resolve deeper issues.

4.7 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Lynda Barry

Explore all 133 Lynda Barry quotes

More Afterwards quotes

Browse all 117 Afterwards quotes