xxviii. 22. _Now, therefore, be ye not mockers, lest your
bands be made strong._
The sense of the ludicrous is excited by words, ideas, images, or
objects in which unexpected resemblances are seen in things
previously considered incongruous, or in which incongruity is
perceived where complete resemblance was supposed. The perception of
the ludicrous varies. Where it exists in connection with the ability
to convey the ludicrous idea in language, it is called wit. It is one
of God's gifts. There is no reason why it should not be exercised.
The evil is in untimeliness and excess. It is dispiriting and sad to
be with people who are always and only see the dismal side of
everything. It is equally pitiable to observe people who are ever in
search of something laughable. The latter is a present-day danger. We
have publications whose aim is to present the ludicrous side of
everything. The popular taste encourages such writing. Even grand
themes are not exempt for this kind of treatment. Some mock
deliberately that they may injure; others thoughtlessly for the
amusement of the moment. Of all wit it is the most gratuitous the
easiest, the most mischievous and dangerous.