“Whatever is funny is subversive, every joke is ultimately a custard pie… a dirty joke is a sort of mental rebellion.”
- June 25, 1903 – January 21, 1950
- Born in India during the British colonial period
- Author, journalist
- Through his representative works “1984” and “Animal Farm,” he presented sharp criticism of totalitarianism and the abuse of power, greatly influencing contemporary literature and thought.
Quote
“Whatever is funny is subversive, every joke is ultimately a custard pie… a dirty joke is a sort of mental rebellion.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell explores the idea that humor inherently challenges the status quo. According to Orwell, humor, whether through satire, absurdity, or provocation, subverts authority and established norms. The reference to a custard pie (a slapstick, comic device often used to humiliate authority figures) suggests that humor, at its core, is a form of disruption. In particular, dirty jokes—which often deal with taboo or controversial subjects—are seen as a form of mental rebellion, questioning societal restrictions on what is considered acceptable or proper. Orwell is highlighting how humor provides a way for individuals to express resistance to social, political, or cultural pressures in a way that is more palatable or less dangerous than direct confrontation.
Orwell was no stranger to the power of subversive ideas, particularly in times of political oppression. As a writer and journalist, he often used satire to critique the totalitarian regimes he despised, as seen in works like Animal Farm and 1984. Humor, in Orwell’s view, was a potent weapon against the abuses of power, as it allowed people to expose the flaws and hypocrisy of authority figures in a less confrontational manner. His assertion that every joke is a “custard pie” underscores how humor can serve as a tool of resistance, mocking and humiliating those who hold power, while also providing an avenue for individuals to express dissatisfaction with societal norms.
This idea remains relevant in modern times, where humor continues to play a key role in political discourse and social critique. Satirical comedians, social media, and stand-up comics often push boundaries by making light of controversial issues, creating a space where people can question and rebel against norms and power structures. However, the line between humor as rebellion and humor that perpetuates harm or oppression is still debated. Orwell’s words remind us of the liberating and disruptive power of humor, especially when it is used to challenge authority, expose injustice, and reflect on the absurdities of life.
