Brilio.net - Anecdotal text is a type of text that is often presented with the aim of conveying satire, criticism, or simply providing entertainment. In it, there are elements of humor that make the reader feel entertained. However, humor in anecdotal text is not just any humor. There are special techniques and ways to create a distinctive humorous effect. The following are some examples of humorous elements in anecdotal text that you need to know in order to create anecdotal text that is entertaining and meaningful.
1. Irony in anecdotal text
One example of the most frequently used humorous element in anecdotal texts is irony. Irony occurs when what is said or conveyed contradicts the actual reality. In anecdotal texts, irony is often used to mock or criticize in a subtle but still funny way. For example, someone who is too confident in an anecdote might get into an embarrassing situation, which then becomes the center of humor.
2. Ridiculous hyperbole
Another humorous element that often appears in examples of humorous elements of anecdotal texts is hyperbole, which is exaggerating something to the point of seeming unreasonable. This hyperbole can make readers laugh because of the unreasonableness presented. For example, describing someone who is excessive in small things such as when someone says that he is willing to walk thousands of kilometers just to get a piece of his favorite cake. This hyperbole gives the impression of light and entertaining humor.
3. A ticklish parody or imitation
Parody is also an example of an equally interesting humor element in anecdotal text. Parody usually imitates the speaking style, attitude, or habits of a person or group in an exaggerated way. Anecdotal texts that use parody elements often imitate famous figures or common situations in society. The goal is to entertain and provide satire to the object being parodied. Readers can easily recognize who is being parodied and this makes them laugh.
4. Satire that criticizes humorously
Satire is an example of the most effective humor element in anecdotal texts to convey criticism. Satire uses humor to convey sharp satire on a situation, policy, or social behavior. Although sometimes cynical, satire can still make readers laugh because there is an element of truth that is raised, even though it is delivered in a funny way. An example of satire that often appears in anecdotal texts is criticism of officials who promise too much but do little.
5. Clever word play
Wordplay is another technique that often appears as an example of humorous elements in anecdotal texts. Wordplay can be in the form of using homonyms or words that have double meanings, thus creating a clever humorous effect. In anecdotal texts, this wordplay can give a subtle but still striking impression of humor. For example, when someone says, "I don't like fast food, because I like it slow, so I can eat longer," the reader can catch the implied joke from the wordplay.
6. Use of absurd characters
Characters who behave out of the ordinary or absurdly are also often examples of humor elements in anecdotal texts. These absurd characters can appear in the form of excessive or very strange behavior, which makes the reader wonder but laugh. For example, a teacher who is very strict to the point of giving a bad grade just because his student is one second late. This kind of character behavior adds an interesting element of humor.
7. Unexpected situations
The last humorous element that often appears in examples of humorous elements of anecdotal texts is an unexpected situation or punchline. This situation makes the reader confused, where at first the story runs normally, but at the end of the story an unexpected surprise appears and actually makes people laugh. For example, a student who promises to study hard every day, but ends up falling asleep at the desk with an untouched book. This unexpected situation makes the reader feel entertained.
The humorous elements in anecdotal texts are not ordinary humor, but rather intelligent humor and often contain subtle satire. From irony to unexpected situations, all of these elements play an important role in creating laughter while providing deeper meaning. The examples of humorous elements in anecdotal texts that have been explained above can be an inspiration for those of you who want to write funny and meaningful anecdotes. The smarter you are at combining these elements, the greater the chance that your anecdotal text will invite laughter and appreciation.