Longform

Episode 556: Jesse David Fox

Nov 1, 2023
Jesse David Fox, comedy writer for Vulture, discusses his new book on comedy's influence on culture. The podcast explores the evolution of humor, challenges in writing about comedy, and the shift towards more serious comedy criticism. They also touch on the market dominance of different comedy styles and the impact of live comedy experiences.
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INSIGHT

Comedy Criticism's Uncharted Territory

  • Comedy criticism lacked serious historical foundation compared to other art forms.
  • Jesse David Fox built his career by starting a conversation that no one had been participating in.
ANECDOTE

Interview With Jen Kirkman

  • Jesse asked Jen Kirkman if a joke was true, sparking a realization about comedians' storytelling.
  • He explored the varied and unique ways comedians write and develop jokes on stage.
INSIGHT

Breaking 1980s Comedy Rules

  • The 1980s comedy scene imposed rigid, defensive 'rules' on what constitutes real comedy.
  • Breaking these outdated codes allows comedy to connect genuinely and expand its cultural value.
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