British Comedy Guide

Creativity and Mental Illness Page 3

Quote: Morrace @ May 7 2009, 5:40 PM BST

I'm currently avoiding 'whores'.

:)

Quote: David Bussell @ May 7 2009, 1:05 PM BST

That's the old Pagliaci joke. Alan Moore used it in Watchmen:

"Man goes to doctor. Says he's depressed. Says Life is harsh and cruel. Says he feels all alone in a threatening world. Doctor says "Treatment is simple. The Great Clown Pagliacci is in town tonight. Go see him. That should pick you up." Man bursts into tears. Says, "But doctor... I am Pagliaci." "

Yeah... then again clowns are shit.

I am fortunate never to have suffered mental illness so cannot comment on whether it affects creativity. However, MI5 sending subtle derogatory messages through my TV and radio is certainly a hindrance to good writing.

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