Don Rickles: 'You can't study comedy it's within you. It's a personality. My humor is an attitude.'

You can't study comedy it's within you. It's a personality. My humor is an attitude.

The quote by Don Rickles, "You can't study comedy, it's within you. It's a personality. My humor is an attitude," encapsulates the notion that comedy is not something that can be learned or acquired through study but is instead an inherent part of an individual's personality. Rickles suggests that comedy is an attitude that permeates one's being, affecting the way they perceive and interact with the world. This quote underscores the unique nature of humor and highlights its subjective and personal aspects.Comedy, as an art form, has been an integral part of human expression for centuries. From ancient Greek playwrights to contemporary stand-up comedians, humor has served as a means of connection, critique, and entertainment. While many aspiring comedians may believe that studying comedy techniques and honing their craft can make them funnier, Rickles challenges this notion. He suggests that humor springs from one's natural inclination, a unique aspect of their personality that cannot be manufactured or cultivated through external means.At first glance, Rickles' perspective may seem discouraging for those hoping to pursue a career in comedy. However, it opens up an unexpected philosophical concept: the idea that humor, like many aspects of our being, is not something we acquire but rather something we uncover. This perspective aligns with the notion that our true selves lie beneath layers of conditioning and societal expectations. The pursuit of self-discovery becomes not about acquiring new skills but rather about peeling away the layers of inhibition, fear, and conformity to reveal our authentic and humorous self.There is a certain beauty in the idea that humor is a part of our personality, waiting to be embraced and expressed. It suggests that comedy is not a distant island to be reached through years of practice, but rather an inherent trait that we can tap into. This perspective can alleviate the pressure of trying to be something we are not and encourage us to embrace our unique comedic voice.However, it is essential to acknowledge that while humor may be a personality trait, it does not mean that it cannot be enhanced or refined through experience. Just as an artist's voice develops over time, a comedian's humor can be shaped through exposure to different styles, audiences, and cultural influences. The experiences we have, the connections we make, and the observations we draw upon all contribute to the evolution of our comedic sensibility.In conclusion, Don Rickles' quote highlights an important aspect of comedy, emphasizing the role of personality and attitude in creating humor. While one cannot study comedy in a traditional sense, the idea that humor is within us and intimately connected to our personality creates an intriguing philosophical concept. It challenges us to explore our own authenticity, embrace our unique comedic voice, and view the pursuit of comedy not as an external skill to acquire but as an internal journey of self-discovery. So, if you aspire to be a comedian, don't be disheartened by the thought that comedy cannot be studied. Instead, dive into the depths of your own personality, explore your attitudes, and allow your humor to shine through.