Melissa Barker-Simpson

Vain attempt at humour 

Aspiring writers are often told to write about what they know, and certainly the things they enjoy. Being ourselves, being free to explore, is both a wonderful and scary experience. Writing can be very personal. It’s like giving others a view into our soul.  

When it comes to humour, it can be tough to gauge what audiences find amusing. What we deem funny, doesn’t always tickle another’s funny bone! The fascinating thing about using comedy in our work, is learning what makes a reader laugh – what translates and what doesn’t. 

Often, it takes us by surprise when a reader feeds back that they laughed out loud at a point we didn’t expect. I mean, we laugh at our own jokes – who doesn’t? – but we can gain new appreciation for a character or scene through the eyes of another. Writing really is a gift that keeps on giving! 

Though, given that writing is also a difficult job, (trials and tribulations aside), we deserve a little light entertainment. So, if the tears you’re shedding as you tap away are from amusement instead of misery, then who cares if you’re the only one laughing! 

Thanks for stopping by 

Mel