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Use juxtaposition.

“Even just very natural mundane conversation can be funny if made to rhyme extremely naturally. The informality of conversation and the formality of a strict rhyme and meter can create a strangely funny tension” -- Peter Berryman

 

Informal vs. formal is one form of juxtaposition that can be funny. Another form can be using thoughts or words inappropriate to the speaker. Can you picture Abe Lincoln singing “The Camptown Races?” The Look Who’s Talking movies gave babies adult voices and thoughts. Another juxtaposing pair can be beauty vs. ugliness. Such juxtapositions are like the repetition of the villanelle, they heighten the effect, whether comic or tragic.

 
Tip Origin: Peter Berryman

 
Status: Complete

 

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