The statement suggests that farce, a form of comedy characterized by exaggerated situations and absurd characters, can be viewed as an accelerated version of tragedy. When we say it's played "at a thousand revolutions per minute," we are essentially referring to the pace at which events in farce unfold, making them seem more exaggerated and faster-paced compared to real-life tragedies.
This quote delves deeper into the interconnected nature of comedy and tragedy, highlighting how humor can often arise from situations that are inherently tragic or serious when viewed from a slower perspective. By speeding up the intensity and absurdity of these scenarios, farce allows us to see life's difficulties with a different lens, potentially offering a form of catharsis. It also implies that human suffering and pain, when observed through a highly sped-up comedic lens, can be transformed into something more palatable or even humorous.
John Mortimer was an eminent British lawyer and writer, known for his wit and sharp commentary on life. Born in 1923, he authored numerous books and scripts, including the popular series "Rumpole of the Bailey," which featured a fictionalized version of himself as an aging but feisty barrister. His work often blended humor with serious social issues, reflecting a deep understanding of both human folly and resilience.
