Comedians Tom Papa and Marc Maron discuss meaning, maturity, mysticism, and maintaining their humor as they navigate the comedy world at their ages and success levels. They reflect on their pasts, talk about touring schedules and venues, and explore topics like jazz music, spirituality, and the passage of time. They also jokingly contemplate their aging bodies, health concerns, and the uncertainty of what comes after death.
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Quick takeaways
Comedians should embrace their unique style and stay true to their craft, despite the changing landscape of comedy.
The speaker cherishes the memory of meeting director Lynn Shelton, despite the missed opportunity to work together.
Old comedy acts like Tom Dreesen and Argus Hamilton still have a lasting impact on audiences with their pacing and professionalism.
Deep dives
The difference between hope and denial is just a tonal difference.
There is a difference between hope and denial, but it is only a tonal difference. They can often coexist together. Jazz music helped the speaker enjoy his day, even without eating or masturbating. The pacing and professionalism of old comedy acts, like Tom Dreesen or Argus Hamilton, show that there is a certain language and rhythm to their performances that still resonate with some audiences. The popularity of TikTok and social media has created a different language of comedy, and some acts that were once popular have now trended out. Despite the changing landscape of comedy, the speaker acknowledges that their own style is unique and may not appeal to everyone, but they appreciate their loyal audience. Stand-up comedy is a constantly evolving art form, and it is important for comedians to stay true to their own style and craft.
A near miss opportunity to work with director Lynn Shelton
The speaker had a near miss opportunity to work with director Lynn Shelton on a special. Despite struggling through a set at a club before their meeting, the speaker felt guilty about bringing Shelton into that environment. They remember Shelton being a cool kid and wanting to create a better experience for her. In the end, the opportunity didn't pan out, but the speaker cherishes the memory of meeting Lynn Shelton.
The different styles and challenges of comedy clubs
The speaker discusses the different styles and challenges that come with performing in various comedy clubs. He mentions the pacing and professionalism of certain acts, such as Tom Dreesen, and how their tried-and-true style still resonates with audiences. He also notes that certain comedy clubs have their own unique environments and audiences, and that not all acts or styles align with every club. The speaker reflects on his own preferences and aims to stay true to his own style, regardless of trends or expectations.
The speaker discusses the influence of old comedy acts and the changing landscape of comedy
The speaker reflects on the influence of old comedy acts, like Tom Dreesen and Argus Hamilton, and how their pacing and professionalism still resonate with audiences today. The speaker also acknowledges the changing landscape of comedy with the rise of social media platforms like TikTok and the evolving language of comedy within those platforms. While some acts have found success in these new mediums, the speaker recognizes that their own style may not align with the popular trends. Despite this, they appreciate their loyal audience and continue to evolve their craft.
Reflections on the fleeting nature of time
The speaker contemplates the passage of time, expressing a sense of disbelief and disorientation in relation to the years gone by. COVID-19 has further disrupted their perception of time. They discuss the importance of cherishing moments and being present, as they approach their 60s and reflect on how quickly time flies.
Navigating relationships and mortality
The speaker shares personal experiences and thoughts on relationships and mortality. They discuss dating someone younger, acknowledging the potential challenges that come with the age difference. They delve into their spiritual beliefs, highlighting a sense of practicality and a search for meaning beyond traditional religions. They touch on the profound impact of losing loved ones and the process of letting go of material possessions after their passing.
Tom Papa’s last trip to the garage was mostly about his comedy past, reflecting on how he and Marc got to where they are in their chosen profession. This time, Tom and Marc are thinking mostly about their futures, how they’re navigating the comedy world at their ages and success levels while staring at a not-too-distant time when the stage light goes out for good. Just two comedians discussing meaning, maturity, mysticism and maintaining the funny.