People often describe their favourite comics as “having great timing.”
I think this is pretty daft.
I imagine people single out timing because:
- It’s seen as an elusive, mystical quality.
- It’s what everyone says about stand-up comics that they like.
From my experience as a stand-up comic, I see timing as being no greater a component of the stand-up’s art than their material and delivery. In fact, it’s a far lesser aspect (timing is obviously part of delivery). I’ve never heard a stand-up comic refer to another comic favourably by mentioning their timing; they’ll say that they’re funny. Or they might say that they have great material, or great delivery. Style can win over substance, and vice versa.
By isolating timing, what you’re saying is that you enjoy the bit that actually makes you laugh; the punchline. Well, that’s only going to be any good if the both the set-up and punchline have been well written and well delivered. It’s like saying that Roger Federer has excellent accuracy. Indeed he has; he can place the ball with pinpoint accuracy, beyond his opponent’s reach, but within the line. But without the quality of his service, return, endurance, reaction speed, agility and strength, that accuracy counts for nothing. What you’re saying is that he’s good at scoring points. Well, that’s true. But why not just say that he’s a great tennis player?
If you think a stand-up comic is funny, then why not say that? You can apply this to giving your opinion in general:
- Don’t be afraid of saying something that you think people may find simple or obvious.
- Don’t just say what everyone else says. Be original, and speak your mind.