The only thing we have real control over is our emotions.

Okay, I’ll take that joke and turn it into a “Joke Poo” version.

Original Joke:

The only thing we have real control over is our emotions.

Yes it’s a joke, humans can’t control their emotions for shit.

Joke Poo: The Remote Control

The only thing my toddler has zero control over is the TV remote.

Yes, it’s a joke, because I have zero control when he’s holding it.

Explanation of Changes and Rationale:

• Changed the Subject: Instead of abstract emotions, the new joke focuses on a tangible object: the TV remote.
• Character Substitution: Replaced “humans” with “my toddler,” adding a relatable and specific context (toddlers and their fascination with remotes).
• Shifted the “Control” Concept: Instead of emotional control, it’s about controlling access to a device (the remote). The twist is that the speaker (the parent) also loses control, despite being the adult.
• Maintained Comedic Structure: The structure remains the same: A statement is made, then immediately undercut by a blunt observation. The humor comes from the unexpected contradiction and relatable scenario.
• Relatability and Exaggeration: The humor comes from the common experience of parents battling toddlers over the TV remote and the feeling of losing control even when you’re supposed to be in charge.

Okay, let’s analyze that “joke” (and I use that term very loosely).

Deconstruction:

• Core Idea: The “joke” is built on the ironic contrast between the statement that humans have control over their emotions and the widely perceived (and often experienced) reality that they don’t. The humor comes from the absurdity of the initial statement in light of common experience.
• Humor Type: Irony, possibly with a dash of self-deprecating humor depending on who is telling the joke and their intention.
• Key Element: The lack of emotional control in humans.

Enrichment & New Humor Generation:

Now, let’s use some factual tidbits related to emotions to spin off a more robust joke or observation.

Factual Tidbit: Studies have shown that even infants display basic emotions like joy, sadness, anger, and disgust. Furthermore, the amygdala, a key brain region for processing emotions, develops relatively early in life.

New Joke:

“The only thing we have real control over is our emotions,” people say. Meanwhile, my amygdala, which developed around the same time I was learning to drool, is still running the show. My inner toddler throws a tantrum every time I see a sale sign and the sweater I love is not in my size.

Analysis of the new joke:

• Structure: Starts with the original (false) premise to set up the punchline.
• Connection: The factual tidbit of early emotional development is now linked to the concept of lack of control.
• Humor: Comes from the relatable experience of emotional reactions, and the personification of the amygdala as an immature and impulsive “inner toddler” who dictates my emotional responses. Relatability is a strength, and using “inner toddler” as a source of misbehavior will bring a smile to others.
• Target: Self-deprecating humor, poking fun at the human tendency to be driven by emotions rather than reason.

Another approach: Witty Observation

“We have total control over our emotions.” That’s why the pharmaceutical industry is booming, and chocolate is a staple food group during break-ups.

Analysis:

• Structure: Still uses the initial premise as a foil.
• Connection: Implies that if we really had control, mood-altering substances and emotional crutches (like chocolate) wouldn’t be necessary.
• Humor: Comes from the obvious contradiction to the premise, and the recognition of everyday emotional coping mechanisms.

Another Approach: “Did you Know”

Did you know: Researchers found that if you rename anger “discomfort” it makes you less angry? It’s a foolproof method of emotional control, especially if you also rename your discomfort “homicidal rage.” Works every time.

Analysis:

• Structure: Fakes earnestness to subvert expectations
• Connection: Plays with the language of emotional control to reveal its absurdity, escalating to absurdity.
• Humor: Stems from the unexpected and darkly humorous subversion of a common self-help trope.

The key to improving the original “joke” is to exploit the inherent absurdity of the claim through relatable situations, surprising juxtapositions, and a touch of self-awareness. Good luck chuckling!