Quote#Humour & Wit
It is indeed very possible, that the Persons we laugh at may in the…
Quote byJoseph Addison · 1672–1719
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The Spectator (1711–1714), No. 47 (24 April 1711).
English (original)
It is indeed very possible, that the Persons we laugh at may in the main of their Characters be much wiser Men than our selves; but if they would have us laugh at them, they must fall short of us in those Respects which stir up this Passion.
— Joseph Addison
More from Joseph Addison
Consecrate the place and day To music and Cecilia. Let no rough winds approach, nor dare Invade the hallow'd bounds, Nor rudely shake the tuneful air, Nor spoil the fleeting sounds.
On you, my lord, with anxious fear I wait, And from your judgment must expect my fate.
When time itself shall be no more, And all things in confusion hurl'd, Music shall then exert it's power, And sound survive the ruins of the world: Then saints and angels shall agree In one eternal jubilee:
Music religious heat inspires, It wakes the soul, and lifts it high, And wings it with sublime desires, And fits it to bespeak the Deity.
Music, the greatest good that mortals know, And all of heaven we have below.
Let echo, too, perform her part, Prolonging every note with art; And in a low expiring strain, Play all the concert o'er again.