People who make puns are like wanton boys that put coppers on the railroad tracks. They amuse themselves and other children, but their little trick may upset a freight train of conversation for the sake of a battered witticism.

Summary

This quote suggests that people who make puns are similar to mischievous children who place coppers on railroad tracks to create a disruption. While they may entertain themselves and others momentarily with their wordplay, their actions can derail the flow and depth of a meaningful conversation just for the sake of a shallow joke. Thus, the quote implies that puns may be fun in small doses, but they can hinder the progression of more substantial discussions.

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