Can You Think of a Time When You Laughed So Hard You Cried?

Literature is often filled with humorous passages that leave readers in stitches. One such standout is Amos Starkadder’s sermon in Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons. This passage not only evokes laughter but also paints a vivid picture that even those who read it once might need to laugh again.

Humor in Literature: A Timeless Craft

Humor in literature is an art form that can touch hearts and minds. It can make a character relatable, provide comic relief, and even convey deeper meanings. In the case of Amos Starkadder, his delivery of a sermon is nothing short of a literary masterpiece, showcasing the power of language to both entertain and provoke thought.

Starkadder’s Sermon: A Classic in Humor

The passage begins with Amos Starkadder’s expression, described as one of profound loathing and contempt mingled with a divine sorrow and pity. This combination of emotions sets the stage for what is to come, making it all the more absurd when he starts to deliver his sermon.

Starkadder's voice, described as jarred the silence like a broken bell, breaks the silence with the unexpected and powerful declaration: “Ye miserable crawling worms are ye here again then Have ye come like Nimshi son of Rehoboam secretly out of yer doomed houses to hear what’s cornin’ to ye Have ye come old and young sick and well matrons and virgins if there is any virgins among ye which is not likely the world bein’ in the wicked state it is old men and young lads to hear me tellin’ o’ the great crimson lickin’ flames o’ hell fire ”

This opening line is a mix of the humorous and the ominous, setting the tone for the entire passage. The use of Nimshi son of Rehoboam is a clever allusion, adding depth to the dialogue.

The Power of Pause and Delivery

Amos Starkadder's sermon is expertly crafted with a multiple use of pauses, which not only emphasize the dialogue but also create tension. The first pause after the opening statement is deliberately long, giving the audience time to process and react. The second pause, before his thunderous declaration of “Ye’re all damned!” is just as effective, building anticipation and suspense.

After his famous line, there is a third pause, described as an expression of lively interest and satisfaction on the faces of the Brethren. This detail not only contributes to the humorous effect but also adds a layer of reality to the situation, showing the audience's reaction to the divine message.

Underneath the Humor: Deeper Meaning

Underneath the laughter, Starkadder’s words hold a deeper meaning. His delivery of the sermon is a perfect blend of humor and drama, making the absurdity of his message even more impactful. The vivid description of the demons mockin’ ye and the stench of burnt flesh creates a memorable and unsettling image. This combination of laughter and torment adds a layer of complexity to the passage, making it memorable and thought-provoking.

Ace in the Hole: The Sermon’s Impact

The impact of Amos Starkadder’s sermon is evident in the general rearranging of arms and legs by the Brethren. This detail shows that the audience is deeply engaged, and the sermon has taken on a life of its own. The final line, “Ay an’ the air’ll be full of the stench of burnt flesh and the screams of your nearest and dearest ,” leaves a lasting impression, adding to the overall comedic effect.

Additionally, the whispering hissing of the gas flares that light the hall and the whispering and hissing of the Brethren’s whispering and hissing create a perfect contrast, making the passage visually and aurally engaging.

Conclusion

The comedy in literature is not just about making people laugh; it is about creating a memorable experience that touches the soul. Amos Starkadder’s sermon in Cold Comfort Farm is a masterful example of this art. It is a testament to the power of language and the skill of the author in crafting a laugh-out-loud moment that resonates long after the final page is turned.

Whether you are a fan of Cold Comfort Farm or a literature enthusiast, the humor in Amos Starkadder’s sermon is a classic example of the funny and the absurd coming together to create a masterpiece.