Comedy Quote by W. S. Gilbert
“If your master is surly, from getting up early (And tempers are short in the morning), An inopportune joke is enough to provoke Him to give you, at once, a month's warning.”
About This Quote
Source Song: "The Pirates of Penzance", 1879
A grumpy superior can be easily irritated by a minor joke, prompting an immediate harsh reprimand.
In simple terms: A bad mood makes small jokes cause big trouble.
Key Takeaway
Avoid jokes when someone is already upset.
Themes
authority
communication
temperament
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- workplace
- family gatherings
- morning meetings
- customer service
Key Concepts
hierarchy
emotional triggers
Questions to Reflect On
- Is your timing respectful of others’ moods?
- How can you gauge someone’s temper before speaking?
A Different Perspective
If the superior’s mood improves, the joke may be harmless.
