By: Azur Ekić
Metaphorically speaking, how would one define the work ”key” ? It is that which unlocks a
possibility.
For our readers, what is the door you wish the open, and do you have a key for such a door? Maybe
the door is wide open, maybe it is closed. Key to the feminine principle, to the masculine, key to
contacting a diving being…
For some things we need a key, for others, we do not. To be ourselves, I would suppose such a key is
not necessary. But for those that like to open doors, here is a speech from a wise and well regarded
comedian. Comedians are ones not to be trifled with, as they often perceive a lot of details. It is,
indeed, an art form. With the help of art, to liberation, I present to you a speech from this
magnificent man.
But first, an introduction, as per the wikipedia description:
Norman Gene Macdonald (October 17, 1959 – September 14, 2021) was a Canadian stand-up
comedian, actor, and writer whose style was characterized by deadpan delivery and the use of folksy,
old-fashioned turns of phrase. He appeared in many films and was a regular guest on late-night talk
shows, where he became known for his chaotic, yet understated style of comedy. Many critics and
fellow comedians considered him to be the ultimate talk show guest, while prominent late-night
figure David Letterman regarded him as “the best” of stand-up comedians.
And it was not only David Letterman. Many comedians say Norm Macdonald was the best comedian
out there. I’d like to first share a snippet from his conversation with Larry King: https://rb.gy/jcyg5v.
On September 14 th 2021. Norm Macdonald passed away due to cancer. He never told anyone he had
cancer, not even his family. He did not want people to feel sorry for him, and so he continued
making people laugh in his own unique style as if nothing happened. He joked around how he gained
weight, he said he was preparing for a movie role, while in reality – it was from all the drugs he had
to take as medicine. One of his quotes/jokes during this era of disease (that was kept a secret) was:
“I’m pretty sure, I’m not a doctor, but I’m pretty sure if you die, the cancer dies at the same time.
That’s not a loss. That’s a draw.”
Below is a transcription from his commencement speech to students of…some university. Enjoy.
”Well, congratulations graduating class of 2014.
I am honored to bere.
Now…you are probably going to forget most of the advice you get this week, I figure I have a better
chance of doing some real good if I give you a single specific bit of practical advice that has served
me well throughout my two score intent.
So members of class of 2014., remember this – if you remember anything:
Do not fiddle with your keys over a grating.
Do not fiddle with your keys while walking on a bridge or a balcony or anything like that.
But especially something with slats or openings such as characterized as a grating.
Don’t mess with your keys near a sewer or overlooking a lake.
Now maybe these situations will be rare, but the grating scenario you will find is not rare at all, but
as commonplace as sand itself.
Could be your house keys…Could be your car keys…Could be keys to some storage. Why I suppose it
could even be keys to a ski-mobile…
But do not jangle and toss around your keys while you’re over anything that could be described by a
fair-minded invidiual as a grating.
Your keys are a sacred trust. Please, keep away…from gratings!
Thank you very much and good luck to you. Good luck to you.”
I will let the reader interpret this speech as they see fit.
P.S. As a bonus…! One of his jokes: “Why is taking no pleasure out of things I used to enjoy a sign of
depression? Maybe I’m just finally sick of crayoning.”
Rest in peace, you old chunk of coal.
