- published: 23 Dec 2015
- views: 6915
A punch line (or punchline) is the final part of a joke, comedy sketch, or profound statement, usually the word, sentence or exchange of sentences which is intended to be funny or to provoke laughter or thought from listeners. Few punchlines are inherently funny out of context, but when a comedian sets up the premise and builds up the audience's expectations, the punch line can function as the climactic part of the act.
Punch lines generally derive their humor from being unexpected. The classic stand-up punch line sound is a sting (erroneously called a rimshot) on drums.
The origin of the term punchline is actually a mystery to etymologists. Some sources suggest the first published use of "punchline" or "punch line" to describe the pay-off line of a joke didn't appear until the 1920s or 1930s. Comedians had been using the classic "set-up, premise, punchline" format for many years before that time, however.
One theory is that the word punchline refers to the practice of emphasizing or "punching up" certain lines during a speech or monologue. Actors and broadcast journalists are trained to read their scripts with an ear towards high points and low points of audience interest. It is possible that the final line of a joke is called a punchline because the performer is expected to place stronger emphasis on it, or "punch it up" vocally.
Wake up to sounds of cars at dawn
Another tell-tale sign the simple days are gone
Rush-hour, all the people drive
And think of how its been so long since they felt alive
Punch in
Same time everyday
You start to wonder if it's always been this way
Is there anyone here who would like to escape?
Small talk, nobody really cares
It's kind of obvious by the lifeless stares
Break time, but it's not enough
They spend to whole time thinking about how they feel so rushed
Punch in
Same time everyday
They start to wonder if it's always been this way
Is there anyone here who would like to escape?
Escape from the ordinary
Do something that is just for you
Do something you have always wanted to do
Get away
Go somewhere warm
Just take one minute
One hour
One day of your life
And do it just for you...
Skyline dropping everyday
You know it can't be right no matter what they say
Conflict just rages on
And it probably will till I'm dead and gone
Punch in
Same time everyday
They start to wonder if it's always been this way
Is there anyone here who would like to escape?