Rickyisms, by Will Stanton

To ease understanding of the term “Rickyisms,” some people may equate these brief, humorous quips as “puns.”  That term comes close; however, “Rickyisms” are not so generalized as common puns, and they reflect more precisely the personality of the originator, Ricky.  To begin with, anyone inflicted with “Rickyisms” should be aware that the originator claims to have a personality of a twelve-year-old boy; and his little bon mots usually are on that level.  He has provided us with ample opportunity to reach that conclusion.

Joking boy

Occasionally, however, his little quips, written or oral, garner special attention; and, in my imagination, I assign them special awards.  One that comes to mind (and I'm sure Ricky will not mind my quoting it) was, “As for poor Yorick, the slain court jester, I believe Shakespeare killed him — in the library — with the quill.  Yorick probably told Will a 'Rickyism' and was stabbed in the heart for his trouble.”  I found that quadruple Rickyism particularly enjoyable.

I have encountered some people who do not appreciate puns.  They may prefer something supposedly more sophisticated and witty.  In addition, I also have noticed other people who don't even understand puns, or truly good humor in general.  These are the ones who rely primarily upon the reptilian part of their brains, which also appears to correspond with how they think and vote.  It also is reflected in their love and admiration for racial or political jokes that lack all valid meaning and wit.  Often, our discomfort with their attempts at humor is fully justified, for their attempts at humor are extraordinarily and unnecessarily obscene, or they  may be cruelly denigrating or politically and maliciously motivated.  An essential part of successful humor, unrealized by such people, is that there must be some element of truth in it.  Otherwise, the attempt is meaningless and unfunny.  I frequently have noticed that deficiency in many so-called jokes from mindless Right-Wingers in their attempts to attack and denigrate people whom they hate.  And, they proudly think they are being so witty.

 

Unfunny man

True wit requires valid knowledge and practiced skill.  Far too often, too many people come to the forum half-prepared.  If you were paying attention, you may have caught all the puns in this piece.

Wink wink

©  26 November 2015 

About the Author 

 I have had a life-long fascination with people and their life stories.  I also realize that, although my own life has not brought me particular fame or fortune, I too have had some noteworthy experiences and, at times, unusual ones.  Since I joined this Story Time group, I have derived pleasure and satisfaction participating in the group.  I do put some thought and effort into my stories, and I hope that you find them interesting.