Quote by Mervyn Peake
There is a kind of laughter that sickens the soul. Laughter when it is out of control: when it screams and stamps its feet, and sets the bells jangling in the next town. Laughter in all its ignorance and cruelty. Laughter with the seed of Satan in it. It tramples upon shrines; the belly-roarer. It roars, it yells, it is delirious: and yet it is as cold as ice. It has no humor. It is naked noise and naked malice.
Summary
This quote highlights the dark side of laughter, emphasizing its potential to harm and corrupt. It describes a type of laughter that is uncontrollable, loud, and void of any humor or warmth. This laughter is portrayed as cruel, ignorant, and soul-sickening, with no regard for sacredness or empathy. It is characterized by its ability to destroy and trample upon things held sacred, making it akin to a diabolical force. Essentially, the quote suggests that not all laughter is lighthearted and good-natured, but rather there exists a kind that is malicious and harmful.
By Mervyn Peake
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