I enjoy watching comedians we all can name our favorites doing monologues. I’m sure you’ve seen this happen. In the middle of a monologue when the mood is mounting, what is supposed to be the punch line falls flat. The comedian does a back-up motion, possibly a turn-around on the floor, and says, “Oh! I thought that one would go over big!” At that point he may try to explain it. When the audience gives no more applause, he re-adjusts and goes on.

You know what it is like telling a story or joke and have it go nowhere. Omitting a word, saying sentences in the wrong order, the pitch of your voice these and many things can cause you to lose your listeners. Also, a joke should not have to be explained. In order for a joke to work, it must be obvious. The hearers must be able to catch the point …