In Praise of Comedy

The art of comedy's a sacred thing,
as fresh and precious in its gift of bliss
as when a worshipped one's initial kiss
transports us first. Like Fragonard, we swing
to Lena Horne's delightful rites of spring
on wings of wonder. No analysis 
can pull apart a pleasure pure as this. 
We humans laugh as nightingales might sing.
We're taught to think creators must be serious,
but humour's both unruly and imperious,
and ridicule's the boy-god's sharpest dart.
We laugh and learn, and don't let worries weary us,
for dreariness is deadly, deleterious:
thanks, heaven, for the comedy of art.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Ashley Avatar
August 16, 2025 at 1:21 PM
Dear Michael, another stunning poem from your golden pen! Such a splendid rhythmic rhyming contemplation "in praise of comedy". Your imagery is as beautiful as it is thought-provoking. I was especially struck by "We humans laugh as nightingales might sing" - yes! The art of comedy requires a keen, ingenious intellect, and yes, "humour's both unruly and imperious". I whole- heartedly agree with your last line.. a grand finale! Congratulations for your success in Mark's contest. Warmest wishes.. ~Susan -p.s. gotta love Lena Horne!
Coy Avatar
August 16, 2025 at 2:25 PM
As usual, Susan, you touch all the bases. To me, Lena Horne embodies effortless beauty and excellence. Yes, humour is the great leveller - we can bring down tyrants by laughing at them. You flatter me outrageously - and I love it! Once again, please accept my thanks. Michael
Miller Avatar
August 11, 2025 at 7:16 AM
Very true, a great write, congratulations
Coy Avatar
August 11, 2025 at 8:57 AM
Terry, I'm enormously grateful. Thank you.
Toney Avatar
August 10, 2025 at 2:48 PM
Michael, so very true — “We laugh and learn, and don't let worries weary us … thanks, heaven for the comedy of art.” Congratulations on your top-10 finish on Mile 5 of my 2025 Poetry Marathon Contest. Keep your running shoes on, since Mile 6 has already started. You can find your overall standing in my Mile 5 blog post.
Coy Avatar
August 10, 2025 at 2:59 PM
Mark, what a superb contest this is. You've hit on an excellent format. Michael
Curtis Avatar
August 10, 2025 at 8:16 AM
Mike did you check out the lyrics you sent me The red badge of courage. I made the song for you. If you haven't yet, you can download it from my first page
Coy Avatar
August 10, 2025 at 2:57 PM
I adore it. No pressure, but don't we have to do something together '
Curtis Avatar
August 8, 2025 at 1:22 PM
Very true we need to laugh. well done my friend!
Coy Avatar
August 8, 2025 at 2:02 PM
Nice of you to say so, amigo. Thanks.
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