Comedic Timing explores the science behind what makes us laugh, diving into the psychological and linguistic elements that make jokes work. It argues that comedic timing isn't just innate talent; it's a skill rooted in cognitive processes and speech patterns. The book investigates how our brains react to humor, highlighting the Benign-Violation Theory, which suggests we find humor in situations that are both threatening and safe. It also examines how expectation violations contribute to funniness.
The book progresses from the psychology of humor to the specifics of timing and delivery. It analyzes how wordplay, pauses, and intonation affect comedic impact, drawing examples from stand-up, improv, and everyday conversations. It also considers the impact of speech disfluencies and social context on humor perception.
By bridging performing arts and psychology, Comedic Timing offers insights into effective communication and the power of humor in social interactions.
