Hear Quote by Steven Wright
“If you can't hear me, it's because I'm in parentheses.”
About This Quote
Source Stand‑up comedy routine, 1990s
The joke plays on the literal reading of “in parentheses” as a hidden, audible space.
In simple terms: Parentheses hide but don’t silence.
Pay attention to subtle cues.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing scripts
- teaching grammar
- public speaking
- editing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “in parentheses” symbolize in conversation?
- How does humor reveal hidden meanings?
Some may miss the pun if unfamiliar with the phrase.