Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Director's Instructions on Comedy" is a poem written by Alice E. Stallings. It was first published in the literary magazine, "The New Yorker" in their October 2, 2017 issue.

Explanation:

The poem is a satirical take on the instructions that a film director might give to actors in a comedy film. The director gives a series of absurd and paradoxical instructions, such as "Don't wink at the audience. The audience doesn't exist" and "Avoid the pratfall, the pratfall is necessary." These instructions highlight the paradoxical nature of comedy, where things that are traditionally seen as failures or mistakes can actually be the source of humor.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem consists of one stanza with 14 lines. It is written in free verse, meaning that it does not follow a traditional pattern of rhyme or meter.
• Tone: The tone is satirical and humorous.
• Imagery: The poem uses vivid and often nonsensical imagery to convey its message.
• Irony: The poem uses irony to highlight the paradoxical nature of comedy.

Conclusion:

"Director's Instructions on Comedy" is a clever and humorous take on the art of comedy. The poem's use of absurd and paradoxical instructions adds to its satirical tone and highlights the often-paradoxical nature of humor. Overall, the poem serves as a commentary on the art of comedy and the challenges involved in creating successful comedic performances.

Poem Snippet:

"Don't wink at the audience. The audience doesn't exist.

The audience can't be trusted. It has no body to kick

or applaud or die of laughter. When you hear silence,

you know they've left the room to use the bathroom."

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