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Book Synopsis: When I decided to explore the question of Witz, or wit, with you this year, I undertook a small enquiry. It will come as no surprise at all that I began by questioning a poet. This is a poet who introduces the dimension of an especially playful wit that runs through his work, as much in his prose as in more poetic forms, and which he brings into play even when he happens to be talking about mathematics, for he is also a mathematician. I am referring to Raymond Queneau. While we were exchanging our first remarks on the matter he told me a joke. It’s a joke about exams, about the university entrance exams, if you like. We have a candidate and we have an examiner. – “Tell me”, says the examiner, “about the battle of Marengo.” The candidate pauses for a moment, with a dreamy air. “The battle of Marengo...? Bodies everywhere! It’s terrible... Wounded everywhere! It’s horrible...” “But”, says the examiner, “Can’t you tell me anything more precise about this battle?” The candidate thinks for a moment, then replies, “A horse rears up on its hind legs and whinnies.” The examiner, surprised, seeks to test him a little further and says, “In that case, can you tell me about the battle of Fontenoy?” “Oh!” says the candidate, “a horse rears up on its hind legs and whinnies.” The examiner, strategically, asked the candidate to talk about the battle of Trafalgar. The candidate replies, “Dead everywhere! A blood bath.... Wounded everywhere! Hundreds of them....” “But my good man, can’t you tell me anything more precise about this battle?” “A horse...” “Excuse me, I would have you note that the battle of Trafalgar is a naval battle.” “Whoah! Whoah!” says the candidate. “Back up, Neddy!” The value of this joke is, to my mind, that it enables us to decompose, I believe, what is at stake in a witticism. (Extract from Chapter VI) Read more
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Unlock the hidden depths of wit and wisdom with Formations of the Unconscious: The Seminar of Jacques Lacan, Book V. In this captivating book, Lacan delves into the intricate layers of human humor, bridging the gap between poetry and mathematics. Through an engaging dialogue with poet and mathematician Raymond Queneau, Lacan explores the fascinating world of wit and its captivating power to permeate multiple forms of expression. Join us on this intellectual journey as we unravel the complexities of wit and discover its profound impact on our understanding of human psychology.
Immerse yourself in the humorous realm of intellectual discourse as Lacan recounts a joke that serves as a gateway to comprehend the true essence of a witticism. Picture yourself in an examiner's chair, demanding precision and knowledge from a witty candidate who comically skirts around the question. With each response, the candidate's evasive yet creative replies leave the examiner astounded. This anecdote acts as a lens through which Lacan meticulously dissects the intricacies of wit, offering a fresh perspective on its underlying mechanisms. Be prepared to be captivated and enlightened as Formations of the Unconscious unravels the mysteries of humor and wit like never before.
Discover the value of this joke and its profound implications within the realm of witticisms. Lacan's masterful analysis allows us to deconstruct and comprehend the multiple layers at play in a simple yet intricate joke. As you dive deeper into the chapters of this unique book, you will gain invaluable insights into the nature of humor and wit that extend beyond the boundaries of comedy. Formations of the Unconscious serves as an intellectual playground, challenging conventions and redefining the very essence of wit. Are you ready to explore the extraordinary realm of wit with us?
Unleash your intellectual curiosity and embark on a captivating journey with Formations of the Unconscious: The Seminar of Jacques Lacan, Book V. Immerse yourself in Lacan's thought-provoking exploration of wit and its profound impact on our understanding of human psychology. Don't miss out on this opportunity to delve into the complexities of humor and unravel the mysteries behind witticisms. Expand your intellectual horizons and order your copy of Formations of the Unconscious today!
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