I said of laughter, “It is mad,” and of pleasure, “What use is it?”
—Book of Ecclesiastes, 225 BC
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Quotes
Some things are privileged from jest—namely, religion, matters of state, great persons, all men’s present business of importance, and any case that deserves pity.
—Francis Bacon, 1597Big head, little wit.
—French proverbA difference of taste in jokes is a great strain on the affections.
—George Eliot, 1876No man ever distinguished himself who could not bear to be laughed at.
—Maria Edgeworth, 1809