Humor must not professedly teach
â
Humor must not professedly teach
and it must not professedly preach,
but it must do both if it would live forever.
â
Meaning
This quote means lasting humor should not preach openly, yet it must still carry insight and instruction beneath the surface. Art teaches best indirectly.
About Author
Mark Twain
Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, was an American author and humorist known for classics like Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. His quotes often reflect wit, social critique, and human insight. Twain inspires writers, readers, and social thinkers to explore human nature, challenge conventions, and communicate ideas with humor and intelligence.
Related Quotes
â It usually takes me more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech. â
This quote humorously points out that even spontaneous speaking often requires careful preparation. Good improvisation is usually prepared.
â Martyrdom covers a multitude of sins. â
This quote means public suffering or sacrifice can hide many personal flaws. Heroic status often protects people from criticism.
â I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened. â
This quote means many of our fears are imaginary and never come true. Worry creates more suffering than reality often does.