Harold Lloyd - On Laughter
“It has been amazing to me that these comedies can still strike a responsive note of laughter with audiences of all ages and in all parts of the world. Laughter is the universal language. It establishes a common identity among people—regardless of other differences. It is the sweetest sound in the whole world.” Harold Lloyd (circa 1960s)
Harold Lloyd (1893-1971) was an innovative film-maker, comedian and a brilliant stuntman, making nearly 200 films in his career. His belief in the importance of laughter and his sense of purpose in making people laugh was so strong that an accidental explosion which blinded him and ripped off most of his right hand, he treated as a mere inconvenience.
Lloyd’s sight returned after a while and he was determined to carry on making films and to do his own daredevil stunts; but at the same time he was selflessly concerned about his audience, fearing that his damaged hand would distract them – and stop the laughter.
So he had a prosthetic glove designed to hide his damaged hand. No drama. No fuss.
He carried on doing all his own stunts minus two fingers: hanging perilously off clock towers, walking along skyscrapers, high speed chases.
And the audience laughed.
Today through psychological research, we have scientific proof that Lloyd was right about the importance of laughter – it really is good for you. Physically. Emotionally. Mentally. Good for you.
So.....when was the last time you had a really good laugh? The way you used to as a child - natural spontaneous laughter? Those times when you lose all self consciousness; uncontrollably laughing; all the muscles in your body absorbed by it; completely lost in the moment?
And when you think about it, whatever memories come to mind: those experiences of natural spontaneous laughter – go find more of it – actively seek out the kind of situations and people that make you laugh.
It’s good for us!
Reference:
