Ellen Degeneres: Here and Now; Comic Essay

Ellen Degeneres: Here and Now (Conclusion)

After viewing Degeneres' performance, take a moment to reflect on her performance style:

• Did she hook your attention? If not, why not? If so, how?
• Did she keep your attention? If not, why not? If so, how?
• Did she entertain? What topics or chunks in her set did you most enjoy?

Now, try writing a humorous speech/essay. Use the techniques and tips from last class and what you learned from reading Degeneres work. Try to emulate or copy her style if you can. Your topic or (set) does not have to be about anything too serious--in fact, the more common or ordinary the topic, often the better you can poke fun at it...although, you may wish to tackle a serious topic. When comedians write about serious topics in a scathing or satirical or truthful way, they often create Black Comedy or Dark Comedy. It's important not to alienate and offend your audience in your comedy--instead, try to discuss the topics and observations that we all can relate to. 

It's funny because it's true.

No ideas? Check here for 414 prompts.

HOMEWORK: None. Work on your humorous essay.

OPTION: Secret Santa's Writing Workshop! If you would like, place your name in the "box" and draw a name. Write that person a "personalized" short story, poem, play sketch, or article/essay/non-fiction, comic strip, etc. for the holidays! We'll deliver our gifts on Friday, Dec. 20 before Winter Break! This is extra credit; if you don't want to participate, you don't have to. Don't put your name in the box and don't draw a name from the box!