**Originally written on March 5, 2009.
Sort of a unique way to start out an interesting anecdote, eh? Usually it's a pirate, a preacher or a black guy, and usually it is at a bar. I think if you are going to try and tell a joke with expectations of really being able to crack up the crowd, you should start it out more believably with a character they can relate to.
He walks in and heads straight to the counter, but on his way he is greeted by a salesman...
So far so good right? Like, you can picture all of this, can't you? You have to make sure that your audience can imagine the scenario when they close their eyes and think about it if you really want to knock 'em dead once you hit the punchline.
The salesman walks up to him, and he says "Lookin' for some new jeans?"...
People can relate to this part, ya know? Like...who doesn't hate that annoying salesperson who automatically assumes you want his help? It's the "funny because it's true" aspect. People love to hear that in a good joke.
The kid explains to him that he has just come in to talk to the manager as he has applied to work their as a salesperson himself and wanted a chance to meet him...
Not the funniest part of the joke...but you know, without specific details you may lose the listener before you get to the good part, so make sure you keep the picture crisp in their minds.
The salesperson takes him to the manager and they shake hands and set up an interview...
We're almost at the good part! I promise. Just hold in there, keep your delivery strong and if you feel like you are losing the audience than be sure to emphasize the few words just before the punchline so as to tip them off that the laughs are about to take over!
After the interview, the kid gets hired, and he actually believes that this job will hold for him a future and that with time, it will offer him an opportunity to move forward in the company!
....
What?! You didn't think that was funny? I mean, I did everything right! I timed it perfect, I didn't skip any details...so what is the problem?
Hm. I guess that just since I think it is hilarious in reflection, doesn't mean that it is worthy of becoming a joke that I tell my friends...
Anyway, 2 and a half years, three managers, and a 25 cent raise later, here I am. 2 or 3 hours more a week than I got when I was that ignorant little bastard from the joke. It really is funny just how much one can allow themselves to actually believe that a place of work cares about them as a person. Or at least it is funny how much I did.
I am not fired nor quitting. I merely feel trapped. Like an unfortunate bystander of a long and drawn out joke, I feel completely and utterly trapped with no hint of the punchline in sight. I already committed to standing here and listening to the god damn thing, so I can't very well just walk out in the middle of it. I just wish whoever was telling it would hurry up and finish, so that I can throw them a courtesy-laugh and be on my way.
No comments:
Post a Comment