Comedy is translation
- Tania Ceniccola
- 4 set 2023
- Tempo di lettura: 3 min
Aggiornamento: 1 dic
The internet is abuzz with TED Talks lately, and the latest one from Chris Bliss is no exception.
In his talk, Bliss explores the idea that comedy is a form of translation.
Understanding Humor and being humorous in a foreign language is a particularly difficult area for language leaners, as it implies knowledge of cultural aspects, rather than just of the language.
His premise is that comedy is an art form that takes a concept from one language and translates it into another, allowing it to be understood by a broader audience.
The concept of comedy as a form of translation is a fascinating one, and Bliss’ talk is filled with examples of how this works.
He begins by discussing the classic joke about a duck in a bar. In the joke, a duck walks into the bar and orders a beer. The bartender, confused, asks the duck why he wants a beer. The duck responds, “Why not? I’m a duck!”
Bliss explains that this joke is a form of translation because it takes an otherwise mundane concept—a duck in a bar—and translates it into a humorous context.
The joke works because it takes something mundane and makes it relatable and funny.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Bliss takes his argument a step further and argues that comedy is a form of translation in other areas of life as well.
He cites the example of a political speech, where the speaker is attempting to take the complex issue of healthcare and translate it into something that the audience can understand and relate to.
He then goes on to discuss the power of satire, and how it takes complex issues and translates them into something funny and relatable.
Bliss’ argument is a fascinating one, and it’s clear that he’s put a lot of thought into it.
His use of examples and his comparison of comedy to other forms of translation make for a compelling case.
It’s an interesting and humorous look at the power of laughter, and it’s sure to leave you with a new appreciation for the art of comedy.
Watch the video!
Happy Listening!
Stay sharp, train with purpose, and let your performance speak for itself.
Your Strategic English Coach,
Tania
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